A couple from South Oxhey, who have enjoyed the ups and downs of caring for other people’s children for more than two years, have encouraged more families to consider fostering.

Stephen and Alison Stack, of Northwick Road, said a “fundamental love of children” led them to open their lives and their homes to often troubled young people.

The couple, who already have a teenage son, explained why, at a time in life when many other people would be counting down the days for their children to leave home, they volunteered to Herefordshire County Council to take on more.

“We have a fundamental love of children,” explained Stephen, a 53-year-old former IT worker. "So far we’ve taken on seven children and have really enjoyed the experience.

“Some have stayed for a just a few days; others have stayed on a more permanent basis. Each case is very different but our job is to take care of these kids at very difficult times for them.

“Yes, it’s not always been easy but we knew that when we signed up. As parents to these kids we have to work through any problems with them and remember why they sometimes behave badly.”

Hertfordshire County Council, responsible by law for the care of the county’s vulnerable children, provides foster care for some 600 children every day, an operation made possible by a small army of some 391 qualified foster carers.

The authority, however, says it needs to recruit a further 72 carers, who, after thorough training and vetting, would receive generous allowances of up to £392 per week.

But, as Mrs Stacks attests, fostering is a not a decision to be taken lightly. She added: “The idea is that you give love and not take it. It can be great fun but fostering is very serious. You have to prepare them for a life without you; you have to explain that they will have responsibilities.

“It can be difficult so it is definitely not something to be entered into lightly. You’ve got to imagine the idea that your house will be taken over by children, if you are comfortable with that then it might be for you. If not it won’t be.”

Anyone interested in finding out more about fostering should telephone 0800 917 0925 or visit www.hertsdirect.org/fostering