Welcome to Our March Newsletter

With the first signs of spring beginning to show, it feels like the perfect moment for fresh starts and new possibilities.

In this month’s newsletter, we’re delighted to share more positive fostering stories, celebrate our incredible foster carer community who go above and beyond for young people across the region, and continue raising awareness of the growing need for new foster carers to come forward.

Thank you for the care, interest, and commitment you bring – whether you’re already part of our fostering community or exploring the possibility of becoming a foster carer. Together, we’re helping families grow and thrive as a new season begins. We hope you enjoy reading!

Duncan Sets the Record Straight on Some Fostering Myths

Foster carer, Duncan breaks down some of the misconceptions that hold people back

There are still many myths about fostering that can leave people unsure about whether they’re the “right fit” to become a foster carer. In reality, foster carers come from all walks of life, and many of the assumptions people hold simply aren’t true. From worries about age and relationship status to questions about working alongside fostering, these common misconceptions can put potential carers off before they’ve even begun.

In the video, Duncan, shines a light on the facts and we hope this helps more people feel confident about taking their first step into fostering.

LGBTQ+ Adoption & Fostering Week is here!

LGBTQ+ Adoption & Fostering Week begins on 2nd March, and we’re proud to stand with New Family Social in celebrating the diversity, love, and commitment within our fostering community.

This year’s theme, #NowsTheTime, is a powerful reminder that fostering is open to people from all walks of life. LGBTQ+ carers play a vital role in offering safe, nurturing homes where children can grow, thrive, and feel truly valued.

No matter your identity or family structure, there is space for you in fostering – because every child deserves a loving home, and every family begins with someone willing to open their heart. If you’ve ever wondered whether fostering could be for you, now is the perfect time to explore the possibilities.

The image is a promotional graphic for LGBTQ+ Adoption & Fostering Week 2026, created by Fostering South West in partnership with New Family Social. On the left side, a hand holds up a rainbow‑striped heart against an outdoor background. Beneath it is an orange banner with the phrase “Now’s the time.” Below that are two colourful photos representing diverse families and the New Family Social logo.
The right side features a navy background with the Fostering South West logo and the message:
“All Families Are Beautiful. All Love Is Welcome.”
It also includes the hashtag #FosterWithPride and a tagline encouraging people to explore local council fostering.
The image is a split design. On the left side, a child and an adult sit together in a cosy, warmly lit bedroom or reading nook, sharing a book. Soft toys, cushions, and colourful decorations create a comforting and inviting atmosphere. A stack of children’s books is visible in the foreground, adding to the scene’s focus on reading.
On the right side, a navy panel features the heading “Books Open Hearts and Horizons.” Below it, a list highlights the benefits of reading, including sparking imagination, building language skills, strengthening bonds through shared stories, and supporting learning and confidence. At the bottom, the Fostering South West logo appears with the message “Your gateway to local council fostering.”

Happy World Book Day!

As World Book Day approaches on Thursday 5th March, we wanted to shine a light on the magic of stories and the special moments they create in foster families.

Books open up whole new worlds for children – worlds filled with adventure, imagination, and possibilities. Whether it’s snuggling up for a bedtime story or exploring a new chapter together, reading helps children grow in confidence, develop emotional understanding, and discover new perspectives that can shape their future aspirations.

For many children in care, books can offer comfort, encouragement, and a safe space to explore feelings and ideas. Stories can also inspire future interests, dreams, and opportunities- helping children picture themselves as explorers, scientists, artists, or anything they want to be.

Sneak Peek: “Do You Remember When…?”

Where small moments become lifelong memories

We’re very excited to share a sneak peek into our next campaign which is coming soon. Our aim is to celebrate those unforgettable moments when foster carers help create a child’s very first special memory – the moments that stay with them, long after the day has passed.

From the first time they rode a bike, baked a cake, or felt proud of something they achieved, these memories reflect the everyday magic foster carers bring into a young person’s life.

It’s a celebration of the difference foster carers make, the joy they spark, and the safe, loving spaces they create where children can grow, explore, and experience the wonder of “firsts.”

The image is a promotional graphic for a fostering campaign themed “Do You Remember When…?” At the top, there are four small photos, each showing different meaningful childhood moments. The text on each image prompts a nostalgic memory, such as scoring a first goal, making a first cup of tea, learning to ride a bike, and learning how to shave.
Below the photos, the background shifts to soft, warm tones with a gentle bokeh effect. In the centre, bold white text asks: “Could you help create a lasting memory?” Beneath it, the campaign title “Do You Remember When…?” is highlighted in a contrasting colour, creating an inviting, reflective feel.
The image shows a group of people standing in a line outdoors at what appears to be an axe‑throwing activity. Each person is holding an axe raised in the air, and several are wearing playful Viking‑style horned helmets. They are standing in front of a rustic wooden target wall, with scattered woodchips on the ground. The Fostering South West logo is prominently displayed across the centre of the image. The overall atmosphere is energetic and fun, suggesting a team‑building or social event.

Shared experiences. Real understanding. Stronger support.

Learn more in our latest podcast episode…

Our latest podcast episode offers a powerful insight into the value of peer connection. We are joined by members of the South Gloucestershire male foster carers support group as they reflect on the difference the group has made in their lives.

Through honest, thought‑provoking conversations, mutual encouragement, and the sharing of real experiences, the carers describe what it’s like to feel genuinely understood by people who truly “get it.” The group creates a space where members can learn from one another, find solidarity, and feel seen, heard, and supported on their fostering journey- while also enjoying social events and building lasting friendships.

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