A NEW campaign has been launched to tackle to the shortage of foster carers.

Blackburn with Darwen Council is one of 22 authorities aiming to take on 150 new carers in 150 days.

The projects come after it was revealed that the North West has the has the biggest shortfall of foster carers in the UK outside the London area.

The You Can Foster campaign is looking for new foster carers by June.

Coun Maureen Bateson, the council’s executive member for children’s services for Blackburn with Darwen Council, said: “One of the things we find when people are thinking about applying to become foster carers is that they can sometimes make assumptions about what is involved that are simply incorrect.

“For instance, some people think that they have to own a large house or have a certain amount of income.

“Neither of these assumptions are correct and so we want to hear from anybody who thinks they may be able to provide a suitable home for a child in need.”

Chris Williams, chairman of the North West Fostering Leads groups, said: “There are many people out there who would make a huge difference to the life of a child or young person, who have the time, and space needed, so we want them to come forward.

“Choosing to foster will be a rewarding experience for all the people involved.”