Could you be a foster carer? 2012 could be the year you make a difference.

KCC is actively seeking foster carers from Tonbridge and across Kent. Could YOU be a foster carer? If so, 2012 could be YOUR year.

The Fostering Network charity estimates that 8,750 new foster families need to be found across the United Kingdom during the next 12 months. Between April 2011 and March 2012, KCC set a target to recruit 120 new foster carers and is on course to achieve this.

KCC's Fostering Service offers a range of benefits including comprehensive training and generous allowances, along with supervision and on-going support.

Jenny Whittle, KCC Cabinet Member for Specialist Children Services, said: "I welcome any opportunity to celebrate the work of our 700 foster carers and invite those considering fostering to come forward. Our recruitment campaigns have been successful in recent years but I am keen to attract more carers across Kent, particularly in north and west Kent and Dover, so that we can keep children as close as we can to their family home."

"Fostering is an immensely rewarding vocation and here in Kent we offer a good induction and initial training, competitive professional payments and on-going development and support. Individuals or families considering becoming foster carers, can call to find out more or come along to one of our information evenings."

People interested in fostering can telephone 0845 330 2968 or attend one of the three information evenings that have been planned in the New Year:

• Monday 16 January 2012 at St Teres'as Church Hall, Maidstone Road, Ashford, Kent. TN24 8TX
• Tuesday 7 February 2012 at College Hal, Dartford Grammar School for Girls, Shepherds Lane, Dartford, Kent. DA1 2NT
• Wednesday 14 March 2012 at The Ark, Noah's Ark Road, Dover, Kent. CT17 0DD

The sessions run from 7:00pm to 8:30pm. After a short presentation at 7:00pm, there is an opportunity to speak to foster carers and ask any questions.