Fostering Fortnight has just ended but agencies fear that a carers crisis is looming.
About two-thirds of carers are approaching retirement age - but there are few in their twenties, thirties and forties coming through to replace them.
It adds up to a shortage of 10,000 foster families in the UK, according to the Fostering Network.
Paradoxically, the economic recession could prove an opportunity.
The BBC reports that the National Fostering Association has had an increase in inquiries since the economy dipped and the organisation is now targeting potential carers through social networking websites.
Many local authorities already run conventional advertising campaigns - often on public transport - to attract this new breed of carer. But somehow they are missing the very people they are targeting.
Realistically, the odds are stacked against people in their twenties, thirties and forties who are in work. They are the ones who may have the heavy mortgages where both adults need to be in full-time employment to repay that debt - unlike their older counterparts who may be mortgage-free.
It all comes back to money.
The variations in fostering allowances across the country do not help. Eighteen months ago Community Care reported that one in nine councils in England were failing to meet the government's national minimum allowances.
And in April this year it was reported that half of the foster carers in Wales were not receiving the recommended rate.
Resolve this and inroads into that 10,000 shortfall may be made.
As a foster carer and a Social worker i am appalled at the way i am treated regarding progression in a fostering role. My qualifaction is not recognised but they will not pay for me to do a nvq to get onto the next teir of payment a catch 22. I have a very difficult child- his siter has had 14 placements so far and struggle at times to manage him. I am then asked if after 5 years i am committed to him!
I really would like to see the attitude of managers change and come out of the 1950's and into the 21st century. i don't do this for the money but do need money to provide for my own children and daily living.
Maybe they could attract good professional, younger carers with the right benefitsand the right attitudes.
a very fed up carer