Welcome to the June edition of our local council fostering newsletter!
As Foster Care Fortnight ends, we are thrilled to share the highlights of our incredible journey over the past month in the June edition of our newsletter. This special period has truly celebrated ‘The Power of Relationships’ and has been filled with heart-warming stories, inspiring events, and a strong sense of community.
We have worked with our local council partners to share powerful testimonies, spread awareness and celebrate the invaluable contributions, dedication and compassion that our foster care community provide.
So, no matter where you are on your fostering journey, we hope you’ll enjoy reading more below. Don’t forget, we’re here for you whenever you feel ready to take the next step, or if you just want some of your questions answered.
Stepping up to complete 45,000 steps for Foster Care Fortnight
During Foster Care Fortnight, the Fostering South West Hub and its partners have been shining a spotlight on the critical issue that 1 in 5 children in foster care are placed more than 20 miles from home due to a shortage of local foster carers. To raise awareness we have been taking on the 45,000 steps challenge- equivalent to a symbolic 20 mile journey that mirrors the distance many children must travel away from their community, often losing vital relationships along the way.
People got involved by running, walking and cycling 20 miles individually and as community groups. Our fostering teams have also attended local park runs to raise awareness and have been posting their progress on our social media channels.
By stepping out, we’re speaking up—for every child who deserves to stay connected to their roots. Every step we take in growing our fostering community is a step closer to bringing children back to the communities they know and love.
Keri and Loren start their fostering journey
Meet Keri and Loren, who are new foster carers for Dorset Council. They have recently opened their hearts and home to a young boy in need and he is already thriving in their care- growing in confidence, happiness, and stability each day. Learn more about their fostering journey using the link below.
Keri emphasises the importance of patience, love, and offering support when becoming a foster carer. “Nothing happens overnight. Being able to offer love and a lot of support is important. Being able to look for the positives, even small ones, as every day brings new positives,” she says.
Dorset Council needs more foster carers, especially for teenagers, sibling groups and children with special educational needs and disabilities. Can you help?
Moments that mattered: A look at some of the FCF events
Our local authority partners have been out in full force, connecting with communities and celebrating the power of relationships in fostering at a range of vibrant events. These have included virtual information sessions, pop-up stands and organised meets for foster carers.
South Gloucestershire hosted a heart warming afternoon tea at John Lewis to show appreciation for their dedicated foster carers who offer their unwavering support to provide safe, nurturing homes for children and young people in care.
The Power of Voice: Sharing Our Story on the Radio
During Foster Care Fortnight fostering has also featured on the airwaves, spreading awareness about the urgent need for more foster carers and the life-changing impact they have. Sam, one of BCP’s supervising social workers spoke passionately about the difference foster carers make every day and the ongoing demand for more people to step forward. You can find the feature 1 hr 22 minutes in.
Meanwhile, an inspiring interview with Fru Bird, one of Dorset Council’s dedicated parent and child foster carers, who was joined by a mother she supported featured on BBC Radio Solent. Together, they shared their heartfelt journey, offering listeners a rare and moving insight into the supportive relationships that fostering can build.
Out and About: Connecting with Communities
Meanwhile, teams from across the region have also proudly represented fostering at large public events including the Devon County Show, Exeter Pride, and Plymouth Pirates weekend. These events provided fantastic opportunities to raise awareness, share stories, and invite more people to consider the life-changing journey of fostering.
The Torbay fostering team have recorded a short video showcasing their FCF highlights. You can watch it by clicking the link below.
Tune in to our latest podcast…
Join us for our latest podcast as we explore the Mockingbird model of fostering. Learn more about how this extended family-style model creates a supportive network around foster families, helping to strengthen relationships, improve stability, and build a true sense of community.
You’ll hear first hand experiences from Pete, a Mockingbird Hub Home Foster Carer for Devon County Council as he discusses how this model is making a real difference in the lives of carers and children alike. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation about connection, collaboration, and care.
Whilst we’re on the topic of our Mockingbird hubs, we are pleased to share that Plymouth City Council are proud to have recently launched their second Mockingbird hub. You can find out more about this using the link below.
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