Foster carers in Slough are playing a leading role providing support and security to children in care during the Covid-19 crisis.

Now Slough Children's Services Trust is encouraging more people to apply to be foster parents and has released details of the personal experiences of one eight-year-old girl they to illustrate their point.

'Emily' is described as arriving at her new foster carer's home at the start of lockdown 'loud, over confident, confused and dejected' after being at several other homes.

A council statement said: "Emily quickly settled into her new home and her love of animals soon became apparent. Her foster carer’s own children had previously ridden horses and she was desperate to ride too.

"She enthusiastically read books and watched programmes to learn more about ponies and their care."

She went on to visit stables when lockdown eased and to enjoy her first lesson.

She also enjoyed her first holiday and her first trip to the beach.

A Slough Children's Services Trust spokesman said: "Foster carers in Slough have been doing an exceptional job during the lockdown, providing wonderful experiences and a stable family environment to children who have already faced too much uncertainty."

If you would like to be a foster carer with Slough Children’s Services Trust visit fosterforslough.com or text FOSTER to 60066. Full training and support is provided.