A survey by the Fostering Network has shown that nearly 8,000 more foster carers are urgently needed.
An extra 7,800 foster carers must be recruited to ensure children are given an appropriate placement, the survey of 128 local authorities found.
The finding has been revealed to mark the launch of 'fostering fortnight', which will involve events across the country designed to attract more foster carers. There are currently around 45,000 children and young people living with 37,000 foster families in the UK.
Gerri McAndrew, the Fostering Network's executive director, said: "These new figures show that there is still a desperate need for more carers in the UK.
It's not just a question of numbers - each child should be able to live with a carer carefully chosen to meet his or her specific needs in terms of location, culture, lifestyle, language and even interests," she said.
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