Experienced foster carers and adoptive parents will be on hand at a special information event that has been organised by East Sussex County Council as part of its on-going campaign to find new carers.

The event from 11am to 2pm on Saturday 17 November will be held at the Uckfield Civic Centre but is open to residents from across the county.

The informal drop-in event is aimed at giving people more information about the different ways they could get involved in helping a child in care – through fostering, providing short break care, helping older children leaving care, or adoption.

Officers from the Council’s adoption and fostering teams, both rated “outstanding” by Ofsted, will be on hand to chat and answer questions, as will existing carers adoptive parents.

The event is part of major new publicity campaign to find families and carers for children in need. Under the banner of “Could you fill this space?” the County Council is looking to reach residents who might be able to help a child in care by being the vital loving, caring support they need.

The campaign which launched in October include radio adverts, banners and posters in local communities, and a special website providing a range of information about the ways people can help “fill a space” in a child’s life.

The campaign images feature a child being held aloft on the shoulders of an adult – supported and loved, smiling and happy – but the adult has been removed from the picture and a cut-out left in place. The challenge to residents is “could you fill this space?”

Residents are being urged to visit www.fillaspace.co.uk to find out more about the campaign and the many different ways they might be able to help. They can also ring a special campaign hotline that has been set up on 01323 464129 to speak to a member of staff about the campaign and the different ways they can help.

Cllr Colin Belsey, the Council’s Lead Member for Children and Families said: “There are many different ways in which people can help support a child in care, and carers come from all walks of life. We’re looking for all types of carer and would love to chat to people about the options available and the different levels of commitment involved.”

The drop-in event at the Uckfield Civic Centre kicks off at 11am and finishes at 2pm. Visitors will be welcome at any time.