A HALLOWEEN treat for foster children and their carers was laid on at an Army base.

Fostering North Yorkshire held an activity morning at Catterick Catterick garrison on Saturday.

The event gave carers an opportunity to meet other foster carers – and as well as providing a morning of fun for the children, gave them the chance to speak to other children in foster care.

County Councillor Caroline Patmore, executive member for chidren’s services, said: "This is an important aspect, because it helps the youngsters feel less isolated and helps them to see that they’re not the only children in foster care."

Julie Jeff, a foster carer for 25 years, said: "The children have certainly enjoyed it.

"They have joined in loads of activities. It’s great to have things like this organised for the school holidays.

"It’s also a great way to catch up with other carers who are more understanding about children’s behaviour and you can get advice and support. "Someone may come up with an idea you haven’t tried before, and with new suggestions about dealing with specific problems. "Everybody approaches things from a different angle, so it can give you fresh ideas – and that’s good. "Even after being a foster carer for 25 years, you don’t know it all."

Anyone interested in finding out more about fostering can call 0800-389-2362.