Fostering and adoption staff in the Midlands have been providing expert advice to producers of the longest running radio drama The Archers.
Editor Vanessa Whitburn said she had used the Worcestershire team to research a storyline in which characters Caroline and Oliver want to foster.
Vanessa said: "Like many real people, they feel they can offer something that is lacking in the lives of some unfortunate youngsters.
"We are following their progress so over the ensuing months Archers listeners will be able to see whether they make it through the training and selection process and, if so, what lies beyond."
Fostering and adoption social worker Pam Crawley said they had been "honoured to give advice to the show", especially as she was a keen listener.
"Having such a high profile show promote and raise awareness of fostering is very encouraging for us as we are constantly trying to recruit more foster carers," she said.
"Anyone can be a foster carer as long as they have the time, energy and understanding."
