FOSTER carers are being sought across Northern Ireland to provide a stable home for vulnerable children in the care system.
Health trusts have launched a radio advertising campaign to highlight the importance of fostering and the positive impact it has on a child in need.
They are also stressing that while the assessment of an adult is a "rigorous one", people from "all walks of life" can apply regardless whether they own or rent their home, are in employment or claim benefits and whether they have children of their own.
Lorraine Toner from the Belfast trust fostering service said: "We are asking people to think about fostering on a personal, local level.
"Are you patient, flexible, resilient and child-centred with the time and space in your life to help a child in need? If so, then right within your own local community, it is possible that there is a child or group of siblings who need you and could benefit greatly from your contribution to fostering.
"Applications to become a foster carer are considered regardless of race, religion, language, culture, gender, disability, age, marital status and sexual orientation."
Babies, children and young people who cannot remain with their birth families due to abuse, relationship difficulties or ill health of parents are among those who require a "loving, stable home environment".
"Fostering can be on a short-term basis or longer term, with some children staying with a foster family right through to adulthood," Ms Toner said.
"Health trust foster carers receive financial allowances, 24-hour social work support and ongoing training."
If you are interested in fostering, call the Adoption and Fostering Service on 0800 0720 137 or visit adoptionandfostering.hscni.net.
