Young people who have been in foster care have helped launch an 'innovative' scheme to boost the number of foster carers across the South East.

The South East Fostering Hub aims to be a virtual platform that will provide prospective carers with all the information they may need about the process. 

There are over 11,000 children in care across the South East, and less than 3,000 local authority approved foster carers.

Bracknell Forest Council has led on the creation of the new information site, alongside 20 local authorities across the region. 

Bracknell Forest Council hosted the platform's launch event, with guests and speakers from the Department for Education and young people who have experience of being in foster care. 

A spokesperson from Bracknell Forest Council said: "It was great to share experiences and learning. This programme will help with the urgent need to recruit more people to provide safe, loving and local homes for vulnerable children."