IN the week the Duchess of Cambridge promoted the national need for foster carers Thurrock’s fostering team is promoting the first of their regular drop-in sessions.

Members of Thurrock Council’s fostering assessment team will be on hand to speak to people at South Ockendon Children’s Centre, in Afton Drive between 9am and noon on Monday, January 26.

Team members will be available for a friendly chat or to answer questions on the process, training and support offered as well as on types of payment.

Thurrock Council is looking for at least 20 new families or individuals to become carers this year.

Potential foster families do not have to live in the borough to be assessed. Thurrock Council is seeking people living within easy travelling distance of the borough who are interested in exploring for themselves whether they have the qualities needed, coupled with the desire to have their lives changed forever.

Anyone who believes they have the skills to foster, and the room in their home, should visit thurrock.gov.uk/fostering to find out more and to see the rest of the drop in dates.

Sessions are planned for Tuesday, February 3, between 10am and noon at reception, Civic Offices, New Road, Grays; Monday, February 23, 9am to noon, at Chadwell St Mary Children's Centre, Claudian Way; and Tuesday, March 3, from 10am until noon back at reception in the Civic Offices.