A CHILD care service needs experienced people to help provide respite to foster carers in Swindon.

Five Rivers Child Care, which provides a wide range of fostering across the county, is calling on care givers to offer their skills and time.

There are currently 265 children in foster care across the town, with many of their carers in need of a break.

Martin Leitch, head of fostering operations for Five Rivers, said: “Respite carers are an integral part of the fostering industry and ensure full-time foster carers can retain flexibility in their personal lives.

“Like everyone else, foster carers often find January a busy time so it can be a time when we require more respite carers than usual.

“This type of care is a perfect employment opportunity for those with the relevant care giving skills and would be great for someone in an existing part-time care role looking for a flexible work opportunity.”

A recent survey revealed that more than 540 foster carers are needed in total across the South West over the coming 12 months.

People from all walks of life can become respite carers as long as they are over 21 years of age.

This includes people who are single, co-habiting couples, same sex couples and people living in rented accommodation - the only requirement is a spare room for each foster child.

For more information about respite fostering contact Five Rivers Child Care on 0345 266 0272 or visit www.five-rivers.org