AT LEAST 800 new foster families are needed in Yorkshire and Humber during 2013.

Figures released yesterday by the Fostering Network showed youngsters were living in children’s homes when a foster family would be the best option for them.

Although Yorkshire now has a record 7,500 children living with foster families, more are needed to replace the 13 per cent of the fosterers who retire or leave every year.

Robert Tapsfield, chief executive of the Fostering Network, said: “These children need a stable family life to help them grow and achieve their potential.

“By becoming a foster carer people can help them have the best possible opportunity for a positive future, to do well at school and be successful in later life.

Fostering services are looking for people from all walks of life to become foster carers, of all ages, and from single people to large families.

“What matters is that they have a desire to work with children and the right skills.”

To find out more about becoming a foster carer visit couldyoufoster.org.uk or phone Fosterline on 0800 040 7675.