Have you ever thought about becoming a foster carer? What's stopped you finding out more about it?

Is it that, like many people, you assume your particular circumstances would rule you out of consideration? You work full-time, perhaps, or you're a single person with limited child-care experience.

Perhaps you're in a relationship but not married so we wouldn't be interested, would we?

Maybe your own children are grown up and you've written yourself off on age grounds.

Or is it perhaps something to do with the children themselves? After all, most children in care are there because they're "difficult", aren't they?

Well, their circumstances may be different, but foster kids are no different to other kids.

They laugh and cry; they love to explore but can be anxious about new situations; they can get angry and defensive often with good reason but can also bring fun and a real sense of reward and satisfaction into their carers' lives.

To find out more, contact the Family Placement Team on 01793 465700, or e-mail us at familyplacement@swindon.gov.uk.

Ask to speak to the duty officer or, if you prefer, simply ask for an information pack.

You can also find us on our web site at www.swindon.gov.uk just click on Adoption and Fostering under A-Z of Services.

What have you got to lose?