Until now there has been little investigation in to the costs that foster carers bear in order to provide the extra accommodation space that their fostered children require, or the implication on foster carer recruitment and retention.

This important new research by Professor Tunstall is a vital first step in increasing our understanding of the issue, and in helping the fostering sector consider what might be the policy implications affecting matters such as allowances and grants to foster carers, and the allocation of social housing.

We are delighted that a number of members of The Fostering Network have been recognised in the birthday honours list for their services to foster care.

Children's minister in England, Edward Timpson MP, has backed the 2015 Foster Care Fortnight campaign.

Edward Timpson MP, whose own family fostered around 90 children, says: “As someone who grew up in a large fostering family, I know only too well that not only do those who foster often find it a hugely rewarding experience, but most importantly, the impact on the children they've cared for - and connected with - can be life changing.​

Politicians, councillors and representatives from across the fostering sector will be joining the Minister for Health and Social Services Mark Drakeford AM, at a Senedd reception held by The Fostering Network to celebrate the role of foster care on Fostering in Wales Day, Friday 12 June. 

​Politicians, councillors and representatives from across the fostering sector will be joining the Minister for Health and Social Services Mark Drakeford AM, at a Senedd reception held by The Fostering Network to celebrate the role of foster care on Fostering in Wales Day, Friday 12 June. 

The Fostering Network, as part of The Alliance for Children in Care and Care Leavers, has called for a clearer definition of what care in England aims to achieve with the launch of its New Vision.

An inspirational foster carer from County Tyrone, who is carrying on her family tradition of fostering, was been awarded the 2015 Foster Carer of the Year award, sponsored by Centra, at The Fostering Network Northern Ireland’s Foster Carer of the Year Awards ceremony on Friday 5 June. 

Superstars from the world of sport have thrown their support behind foster carers this Foster Care Fortnight 2015, and called for people to come forward to see if they have the skills needed to foster.

The Fostering Network has worked alongside the NSPCC to create new guidance supporting foster carers to keep children in their care safe from abuse.