This release is from the City of Edinburgh Council:

The Council is appealing for more people to come forward this month to care for the 50 disabled children currently needing care in Edinburgh. A campaign has been launched through press and radio advertising, as well as posters and flyers being distributed across the Capital and Lothians.

The two types of care most urgently needed are:
• Specialist Disability Foster Care: Caring full or part-time for disabled children with complex needs.
• Share the Care: Caring for disabled children with less complex needs for short, regular periods.

The children vary from toddlers to teenagers and display a wide range of disabilities and behaviours, from physical and learning disabilities to autism or Down's Syndrome. They need extra special care and stimulation to develop their potential.

Councillor Marilyne MacLaren, Convenor of Education, Children and Families says:

"Caring for disabled children is a challenging task but the children have a lot to give and nurturing, supporting and guiding them into a positive future is especially rewarding.

"The process for becoming a carer is rigorous, and that is as it should be. But there are no blanket bans, so please don't think we'll turn you down because you're over 40, single, or don't own your own home. What we really need are committed people who have an enthusiasm for looking after children and an understanding of disability.

"In return we offer comprehensive preparation and training, a high level of professional support and a weekly fee plus allowances. In the case of full-time specialist foster care the weekly fee is £361. That's the equivalent of a full-time job, so if you're looking for a change of career this could be for you."

Con McCormick has been a specialist disability foster carer with the Council for around seven years. Both he and his wife are joint carers and they look after three autistic boys, two through regular respite and the other lives permanently with them. Con says:

"None of the boys speak and two have epilepsy too so it's certainly a challenge. The worst thing is not knowing what's wrong when they're upset - they could be physically sore or something out of routine could have unsettled them, but it's the small things that make it worthwhile - a smile or a look let you know you're getting through to them and making a difference. Every minute of every day is special with a child with disabilities It's not easy, but it's worth it."

Councillor MacLaren added: "Every young person is special but some need extra special care. With your help we can ensure that these children are given the support they need to help them go on to thrive. If you think you might have what it takes to meet the special challenges that caring for a disabled child can bring, I urge you to find out more. Please take the next step and pick up the phone today."

Anyone interested in finding out more can call the City of Edinburgh Council free on 0800 174 833 or visit www.edinburgh.gov.uk/fostering