People interested in fostering a child or young person in Solihull are being encouraged to learn more through a range of information events taking place across the borough.

The Foster for Solihull team is offering several ways for residents to explore fostering, whether they are actively considering becoming a foster carer or simply want to find out more.

One option is the team's monthly virtual information session, which can be joined from home.

Lasting up to 45 minutes, the sessions cover topics including what fostering involves, the different types of fostering available, eligibility requirements, the approval process and financial support available to carers.

The online events are led by Foster for Solihull team manager Neelam and also feature a current foster carer, giving attendees the opportunity to hear first-hand about life as a foster parent.

Each session concludes with a question-and-answer discussion.

The next virtual information session will take place on Wednesday, September 30 at 7.30pm.

Registration is free and attendees will receive a joining link ahead of the event.

The team says the sessions are designed to help people separate myths and assumptions from the realities of fostering, providing information to support their decision-making.

Residents can also meet the fostering team in person at a number of events in Solihull town centre, including sessions at Gail's Bakery on the High Street and awareness stands at Solihull Hospital, Touchwood Shopping Centre and the Festive Feast event in December.

Cllr Karen Grinsell, Leader of Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council (SMBC) and lead member for children's services and education, said:

"Foster carers really do play a pivotal role in the formative years of children and young people in care.

"Many children have experienced a range of challenges due to their birth parents being unable to look after them.

"Therefore, we would love to hear from people who would consider offering a loving and secure home to a Solihull foster child.

"To find out if it's for you, or something you might want to pursue in the future, any one of our events are perfect for fact finding."

As a local authority fostering service, Foster for Solihull offers new carers a dedicated social worker during their first year, alongside support groups, training opportunities and access to the borough's fostering community.

People can find out more about fostering in Solihull by visiting the Foster for Solihull website, where information guides, callback requests and other resources are available.