00:00One of Leeds' longest-serving foster carers is urging more residents to consider the role as the city continues to
00:07see high demand for family placements.
00:1057-year-old Marie Proctor has fostered with Leeds City Council for 35 years and believes the experience has shaped
00:17her life as much as the children she has supported.
00:21She estimates she has cared for well over 100 young people, including teenagers and children on remand earlier in her
00:28career.
00:29According to the Council's latest fostering annual report for 2024-2025, there are currently 1,498 looked-after children in
00:39Leeds and 381 approved fostering households.
00:43The report states that recruiting and retaining carers is essential so children can remain in family settings close to their
00:50communities.
00:52Foster for Leeds says anyone over 21 can apply, provided they have a spare room and time to offer consistent
00:59care.
01:01Applications are welcomed regardless of ethnicity, religion, sexuality, employment status, marital status or home ownership.
01:09The Council says additional support has been introduced to help both new and experienced carers navigate the process.
01:16This includes improved access to information, new peer support groups and specialist roles to assist children with more complex needs.
01:25Inspectors have praised the standard of care provided.
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