Town hall bosses have highlighted research that shows children in foster care do better at school to help promote Foster Care Fortnight.

The study by researchers from Oxford and Bristol universities found the stability provided by foster carers helped children achieve better results compared to others receiving social care support.

Young people interviewed for the report spoke of the importance of having someone who genuinely cared for them, and who would not let them down.

The report is being used by the Local Government Association (LGA) to help promote Foster Care Fortnight, which runs until 29 May and is the organised every year by the Fostering Network to help encourage more people to come forward and provide a home for a child.

‘A stable, caring foster family can make the world of difference to a child in need, providing them with the right environment to thrive at school and experience the childhood they deserve,’ said the chairman of the LGA’s children and young people board, Cllr Rob Perry.

‘This research highlights the value of that support, with children who may have experienced all kind of suffering and neglect responding well to the nurturing, encouragement and sense of belonging that's provided by a good foster family,’ added Cllr Perry.

‘For anyone considering opening up their home to a child who needs it, local councils provide lots of training and support, from the first contact right through any future placements, so I would strongly urge people to get in touch with their council to find out how they can help.’