It was with a huge cheer that we followed the media coverage about the Duchess of Cambridge visiting foster carers and children (January 16), as a guest of the Fostering Network.

Kate shone the spotlight on the brilliant work that foster carers do. Her visit also underlined the desperate shortage of foster carers in the UK: another 8,600 families are needed.

Swindon and Wiltshire are no exception: we need dozens more families to help provide a safe and welcoming home for children who find themselves in care through no fault of their own.

Community Foster Care is one of the agencies to which children with complex difficulties are referred in the county. Day after day, our band of fantastic foster carers open their home and their hearts to youngsters who are vulnerable, frightened and in need of love, stability and a safe place to call home.

If any of you have been considering fostering and were touched in any way by Kate’s visit, there is plenty of help available to get them started. Visit communityfostercare.co.uk for more information.

Hugh Pelham Chief Executive Community Foster Care