Happy New Year from Fostering South West!
As we begin a new year, we want to celebrate the incredible commitment of our fostering community and extend a warm welcome to anyone exploring the idea of becoming a foster carer. January is a time for fresh starts, and fostering offers one of the most meaningful ways to make a difference in a child’s life.
We’re excited about the year ahead – working closely with our local council partners and delivering campaigns that are authentic and truly reflect the amazing impact foster carers have on the lives of young people in care. By doing this, we aim to raise the profile of fostering across our communities and inspire more people to consider this life-changing role.
In this edition, you’ll find inspiring stories, helpful resources, and updates from across the region. Whether you’re already part of our fostering family or just starting to learn more, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Happy reading!
Patience, Love, Transformation: The Power of Fostering
Read on to find out about Amanda’s Stand-Out Moment as a foster carer.
One of Amanda’s most memorable experiences as a foster carer was when a young child came to stay who was unable to talk or interact with the world around them. Through patience, dedication, and love, Amanda worked closely with medical professionals and social care teams to ensure the right support was put in place.
Over time, these efforts helped the child overcome significant challenges and begin to thrive in Amanda’s care- a powerful reminder of the life-changing impact foster carers can have.
Introducing our latest campaign: What I Need Most
This campaign shines a light on the voices of children in care, sharing what truly matters to them and often, it’s the small things that make the biggest difference. A listening ear, a sense of belonging, someone who cares- these simple yet powerful needs highlight the incredible impact foster carers have on improving young lives.
What I Need Most encourages everyone to pause and reflect: what do children really need, and could you provide that for a child in need? Through this campaign, we hope to raise awareness and inspire more people to consider fostering by showing that it’s often the everyday moments that change lives.
Could you be their someone?
We’re thrilled to share an exciting collaboration!
Fostering South West is very grateful for the opportunity we have had to work in partnership with the Pauline Quirke Academy of Performing Arts on our latest social media campaign.
The talented young people at the academy have brought to life the words and experiences of care-experienced young people, creating powerful and authentic content that highlights the positive impact foster carers can have.
This partnership has helped us share these important messages in a creative and engaging way, inspiring more people to consider fostering. We are really looking forward to continuing to develop this partnership in 2026.
Government Announces Major Fostering Reforms for 2026
The government has pledged urgent action to reverse the decline in foster carer numbers, with new measures launching early this year to recruit more carers and support those already fostering.
Backed by additional funding for children’s social care, the reforms will focus on removing unnecessary barriers, enabling more people- including those with full-time jobs or families to foster, and introducing innovative models informed by carers and practitioners.
These changes aim to expand the pool of foster carers and provide better support, ensuring more children can access safe, loving homes. As Minister for Children and Families, Josh MacAlister, said: “Fostering changes lives – not just for children who need safety, stability and love, but for the families who open their homes to them.”
Stories of belonging with Holly Marlow
Learn more in our latest podcast episode…
In our latest Podcast episode, we’re joined by Holly Marlow, a children’s author whose gentle, metaphor-rich stories help families talk about foster care, adoption, kinship care, and special guardianship in an age-appropriate way.
Drawing on her lived experience as both an adoptive and biological parent, Holly creates books that open safe, therapeutic conversations at home, in schools, and in social care settings. Her work is a powerful resource for anyone supporting children through these journeys
Tune in and listen today- this is a conversation full of warmth, insight and practical ideas you won’t want to miss!
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