Civil Unrest – a message from our Chief Executive to all our members

I am writing to you today, conscious of the impact that the recent and ongoing civil unrest and racist violence occurring across the UK will be having on fostering families and fostering services.

As your membership organisation, we recognise that foster care encompasses diverse cultures, backgrounds and perspectives and this diversity strengthens the fostering community.

This is a distressing time for everyone, as individuals, foster carers, volunteers and workers whose primary focus is on fostering belonging and building better futures for children. As such, we extend our unwavering support to all those affected, directly or indirectly and especially to those who have been made to feel unsafe in their own communities. 

We are committed to working towards a more tolerant and anti-racist society.

In response to these events, we want you to know we are here for you.  We know that the ongoing uncertainty and unrest may lead to having to postpone or cancel sleepovers, family time or other important events/gatherings. Many of you will be worried about your safety and the safety of the children you look after.

We understand your concerns and encourage you to make use of the following Helplines as well as our Stress Support Line and/or Legal Advice Service.

England: 020 7401 9582

Wales: 0800 316 7664

Northern Ireland: 028 9164 1152

Scotland: 0141 204 1400 

24-Hr Legal Advice Service: 01384 885734

Stress Counselling Helpline: 01384 889549

You can also email us on info@fostering.net so we can forward your message to the appropriate person in The Fostering Network or signpost you to another service

With best wishes

Sarah Thomas

Chief Executive Office, The Fostering Network