Welcome to the September edition of our local council fostering newsletter!
As we move into a new month, we’re excited to share updates, stories, and opportunities that reflect the strength and spirit of our fostering community.
Thank you for taking the time to read and engage with our newsletter. Your continued support and involvement help strengthen our fostering community and make a real difference in the lives of children and young people in care.
In this edition, we are thrilled to be sharing more information with you about our ‘Behind Every Backpack’ campaign. As well as shining a light on some of the incredible work happening within our foster care community and continuing to raise awareness of the urgent need for more foster carers to come forward and start their journey.
So, no matter where you are in your fostering journey, we hope this newsletter brings you insight, encouragement, and a sense of connection to the wider fostering community.
Fostering Teenagers: Supporting Growth Through Life’s Big Transitions
Teenagers in care need stability, guidance, and someone who believes in them and fostering a teen can be one of the most rewarding experiences of all. Adolescence is a time of big changes and big decisions, and with the right support, young people can thrive.
As a foster carer, you can help a teenager build confidence, develop life skills, and prepare for adulthood with a strong foundation. Whether it’s helping with school, navigating friendships, or planning for the future, your support can make a lasting impact.
Listen to Karen, a foster carer for Swindon Borough Council, talk about her experience of fostering teenagers. She has found it very rewarding being able to support young people to feel settled and thrive in her care.
Behind Every Backpack
Every child has a story, could you be part of theirs?
As the new academic year begins, many children step into classrooms with excitement and hope. But for those in foster care, this season can be filled with uncertainty and emotional weight. Our ‘Behind Every Backpack’ campaign shines a light on the hidden struggles these children carry, highlighting these children aren’t just carrying books and pencils, but fears, trauma, and unanswered questions.
Our campaign this September highlights the huge positive impact our foster care community are having on children in care across the region. It also urges people interested in becoming a foster carer to consider taking the next step towards this to offer a child a fresh start. By becoming a foster carer, you could be the steady hand that helps a child unpack their worries and embrace the new academic year with confidence and support.
Perhaps your circumstances have changed this September- a child has moved out, or your home feels a little quieter. If you have a spare bedroom, why not consider using it to make a real difference by becoming a foster carer? You could be the safe place a child needs to grow, learn, and succeed this school year.
Hearing Every Child- The Heart of Fostering
This September, the fostering team at Swindon Council are shining a spotlight on one of the most vital aspects of fostering: the child’s voice. Hearing directly from young people helps shape more responsive, nurturing environments- where children feel safe, valued, and supported. Their voices guide us in improving practice, strengthening relationships, and ensuring that fostering is truly centred around the child.
For children entering foster care, the experience is often filled with fear and uncertainty. One young person the team have worked with shared, “it was scary at first.” Being placed in a new home means adjusting to unfamiliar surroundings, routines, and people but with the support of a compassionate foster carer, fears like these can fade and children can begin to thrive.
The Swindon fostering team shared some heartfelt quotes with us from young people in care, which remind us that being heard can transform fear into trust. One child said, “my carer always tried helping me and allowing me to be comfortable in her house.” While another shared, “I liked her because she was always ready to hear me out and was actively helping me.” These voices show how simple acts of compassion can have a lasting impact. As one young person put it, “she listened to my problems, she understood the worries I had”. Listening isn’t just kind- it’s healing and a key skill to help foster carers make a difference.
Behind Every Foster Carer is a Network of Support
Learn more in our latest podcast episode…
In this episode, we’re joined by Beccy and Chris from Foster South Glos, part of South Gloucestershire Council. Beccy, a dedicated social worker, shares insights into the assessment process for prospective foster carers, while Chris, the council’s Foster Care Training Officer, highlights the ongoing support and development available throughout the fostering journey.
Together, they offer a behind-the-scenes look at how the council works tirelessly to ensure foster carers feel confident, equipped, and valued from the very first enquiry to long-term care.
If you’ve ever wondered what support looks like in practice, this episode is a must-listen.
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