The latest recruitment drive has been launched to coincide with Foster Care Fortnight (May 12-25): a Scotland-wide awareness-raising campaign.

But Mr Lowe concedes that, although there is a national dearth of suitable carers, particularly for teenagers, the need for more fosterers is especially resonant in a widespread area such as the Borders.

“We have recently carried out a comprehensive review of the services we offer children in the care of Scottish Borders Council,” Mr Lowe told TheSouthern.

“They have often been subjected to abusive experiences, sometimes of a physical or sexual nature, or because of alcohol or drug misuse in their family.

“What we have discovered is that it is far better for these youngsters, who desperately need the support and commitment of a loving family, to remain in, or at least close to, their own communities.

“If we can convince more people to become fosterers we can make this happen more often.”

There are currently about 180 children aged under 17 in the care of the council. The vast majority are fostered, but 15 are in specialised residential homes outwith the region, mainly due to their behavioural problems and lack of local provision.

The cost can be considerable, with some establishments charging up to £700 a day.

Currently, the council pays foster carers a basic level of £117 per week per child. The rate for experienced carers who have undergone specialist training and are available full-time is £138.

In addition, fosterers receive an allowance of £83 a week per child under 10 to cover material needs, such as clothes and food. This rises to £133 for each child over 11.

As a further incentive, registered carers in the Borders are paid for 56 weeks in a year, with a double allowance payment for holidays, birthdays and Christmas. In addition, fosterers are allowed 30 days paid respite annually.

“It’s always difficult to get carers with the experience and confidence to look after teenagers and it’s much easier to recruit carers for younger children,” admitted Mr Lowe.

“I’m happy to say that, because of improvements in childcare practices, young people are remaining in their placements for longer and, while this has a direct benefit on the youngster, it had increased our need for more carers in the Borders.”

To launch the local campaign, Mr Lowe will host a special media event at Newtown St Boswells tomorrow when carers and young people who have benefited from being fostered will be available for interview.

You can apply to the council to become a foster carer regardless of your marital status or sexuality.

There are certain offences, however, that will prevent you becoming a foster carer. If you have ever been convicted of a sexual offence or a violent act towards a child then you will not be able to foster.