COMMUNITY Foster Care has a new office in Royal Wootton Bassett.

The not-for-profit agency has been providing carers for children in Swindon and Wiltshire for more than 16 years from its Gloucestershire base.

The new office at the Lime Kiln Business Centre, just outside Swindon, is a commitment to its growing team of carers in the region, which covers Swindon, Trowbridge, Devizes, Calne, Chippenham, Corsham, Devizes, Melksham, Marlborough, Lyneham and surrounding areas.

Lyn Taylor, registered manager with CFC, said: “The decision to open new premises is part of the high level of support that our carers know us for. It means our foster carers have a base close by. They know we value them and that we’re always here to help.

“We will also be running our training courses in the Swindon area so they have less far to travel.”

CFC was set up as an independent agency with charitable status in 1999. Its head office is in Gloucestershire. There are also offices in Cumbria and Lancashire.

As the number of cared-for children in Swindon and Wiltshire keeps rising, the search for foster carers is relentless.

“People often think it’s difficult to become a foster carer, but there is lots of help to get you started and plenty of support,” said Lyn.

"Making a commitment to children and young people as a carer is one of the most challenging and rewarding things a person can do. Having someone there for them through difficult times can mean the world to a child and, in some cases, even save a life.”

CFC is actively looking for carers who can provide safe, nurturing homes for children for short, long-term and respite care.

Foster carers come from all walks of life and can be male or female, single, married or divorced. They must be over 25 and in generally good health.

Anyone who is interested in becoming a foster carer can call the Royal Wootton Bassett team on 01793 858232 or go to www.communityfostercare.co.uk