What is fostering really like?
Welcome to Our Fostering Stories, a dedicated space on our fostering website where we share inspiring case studies and news articles about the incredible journeys of our foster carers and the children they support. Here, you’ll find heartfelt stories that highlight the transformative impact of fostering within our community. From personal experiences of foster families to updates on our latest initiatives, Our Fostering Stories aims to inform, inspire, and celebrate the remarkable efforts of those involved in fostering. Dive in to learn more about the lives touched by fostering and how you can be a part of this life-changing journey.
Read our stories and news articles…
April Newsletter
All the latest news and our practical tips for everyday fostering.
Meet Holly Marlow
Find out about Children’s books that help explain foster care and adoption.
Jacqueline’s Story
Meet Jacqueline, a foster carer for Gloucestershire County Council.
March Newsletter
LGBTQ+ Week and setting the record straight on some fostering myths.
Jo & Martin’s Story
Meet Jo and Martin, foster carers for North Somerset Council
Wes’ Story
Get to know Wes – a foster carer for South Gloucestershire Council
Dave & Anne
Learn about Dave and Anne’s fostering story for their local council, B&NES
Mood Bears
Find out more about our partnership with Mood Bears and their involvement in fostering.
Access the Fostering South West Podcast…
The male foster carers breaking down barriers: Episode 15
We are on the road with a group of male foster carers from South Gloucestershire Council, recording the podcast during a relaxed and fun support group meet‑up – axe throwing together.
A foster carer who is more than just a wizard!:
Episode 14
Wes opens up about what first drew him to fostering, and the amazing journey he’s been on since. He brings a wealth of unique experiences and big-hearted energy to every child he supports.
Stories of belonging with Holly Marlow: Episode 13
Meet author Holly Marlow, whose gentle, metaphor‑rich stories help families talk about foster care, adoption, kinship care and special guardianship in an age‑appropriate way.
Mood Bears: Helping to express emotions: Episode 12
Join us with Jo, the founder of Mood Bears – the colourful, cuddly companions designed to help children across the UK express emotions, build resilience, and feel supported.
Watch our carers and young people share their experiences…
Little Moments: Linda’s fostering story
A Gloucestershire County Council foster carer shares her fostering “little moments”.
Little Moments: Jo & Martin’s Fostering Story
Two North Somerset Council foster carers share their fostering “little moments”.
Little Moments: Wes’ Fostering Story
A South Gloucestershire Council foster carer shares his fostering “little moments”.
Little Moments: Joe’s Fostering Story
A Wiltshire Council foster carer shares his fostering “little moments”.
Archive
October Newsletter (written)
September Newsletter (written)
August Newsletter (written)
July Newsletter (written)
June Newsletter (written)
Foster Care Fortnight 2025 (written)
The Fostering South West Podcast – Local Council Fostering Myths Busted: Episode 1 (video)
May Newsletter (written)
April Newsletter (written)
March Newsletter (written)
Fostering Celebration Event (written)
Rhian’s Story – Gloucestershire County Council (written)
Daniel’s Story – Bath and North East Somerset Council (written)
Duniya’s Story – Bristol City Council (written)
A day in the life (written)
February Newsletter (written)
January Newsletter (written)
December Newsletter (written)
November Newsletter (written)
The fostering journey – saying goodbye (video)
Chris’ Story (written)
Read our October newsletter (written)
Children of Foster Carers month – Bristol City Council (video)
My proud fostering moments – Wiltshire Council (video)
Children of Foster Carers month (video)
My proud fostering moments – Wiltshire Council (video)
10 years of fostering – South Gloucestershire Council (written)
Fostering South West celebrates six months since launch (written)
Spencer’s proud fostering moments – Wiltshire Council (video)
Fostering Moments – Dorset Council (Written)
Why we foster siblings – Dorset Council (Written)
Charlotte’s proud fostering moments – Wiltshire Council (video)
Why do you foster – Cornwall Council (video)
Read our July newsletter (written)
Read our August newsletter (written)
Read our September newsletter (written)
Want to know more?
If you’d like to find out more, and to speak to one of our team, please don’t hesitate to get in touch…