It's Foster Care Fortnight! - A message from our chief executive
This is my fifth Foster Care Fortnight as chief executive of The Fostering Network, and each year I like to kick off the campaign by thanking all those involved in fostering for the vital role they play in the lives of children in foster care. Given the current difficult and unsettling situation, this year’s thank you seems more relevant than ever.
Across the UK, there are currently around 65,000 children being looked after by 55,000 foster families, each of whom is showing a commitment and determination to help those children and young people thrive despite the challenges posed by the coronavirus pandemic. These foster families and the children in their care are, in turn, supported by tens of thousands of social workers and others who are dedicated to help fostered children to achieve the best they can.
I want to say thank you, on behalf of our charity, to every single person involved in ensuring that foster care is the very best it can be.
The Fostering Network runs Foster Care Fortnight to help shine a spotlight both on the power of fostering to make a positive impact on the lives of children and young people and the profound difference those they in turn make in the lives of foster families. It also provides us with the opportunity to raise awareness of the need for more people to come forward to foster. Every year thousands more fostering households are needed, and this year – despite the coronavirus pandemic – is no different. If you think you have the skills, experience and love required to foster then please do get in touch with your local fostering service. You can find out more about becoming a foster carer here.
I would encourage you to take part in Foster Care Fortnight in whatever way you can:
- Engage your friends, relatives or neighbours by sharing your fostering experiences with them.
- Raise awareness by taking a photo with our placard (printable at home) and share it on social media using #FCF20
- Update your profile picture with our Twibbon.
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You can also share our Foster Care Fortnight film (and watch it below) or make a donation to support our work.
Every little thing you do goes a long way and helps us to make foster care better – for fostered children and everyone involved in fostering.
Thank you again to every foster family and social worker for all you do every single day. There are children, teenagers and young adults whose lives are vastly different because of the role you have played.
All my very best wishes
Kevin Williams
Chief executive, The Fostering Network
PS Here's the film:
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