Foster Care Fortnight 2023 – The Importance of Community in Fostering

TAMESIDE Council Foster Carers are supporting the national fostering campaign to encourage local people to become part of their fostering community.

Foster Care Fortnight takes place this year from 15-28 May with the theme of Fostering Communities.

Tameside’s own foster carers have shared the transformative power of fostering and how it changes lives in the local area.

Jo Howard, from Ashton, has been fostering since 2009 and talks of helping children realise their potential. She said: “Every child is good at something and it’s our job to find out what that is and really encourage them. It’s amazing to see them blossom.

“One child I fostered was very talented at drawing so I encouraged them to explore that and they still send me pictures of their artwork to this day, it’s so wonderful to see.

“Seeing the transformation of when they first come to you to when they leave is so rewarding - to see that shine that they have. It’s amazing to think that you have played a big part in that.”

On being part of the fostering community, Jo said: “As a single carer you can often feel underrepresented within the fostering world, but there are some plus sides, including being able to provide that 1-1 support for a child. There is lots of support on offer from fellow foster carers  - some of whom become your close friends - and also your support worker. There is a real sense of community.”

Cllr Bill Fairfoull, Tameside Council Deputy Leader and Executive Member for Children and Families, said: “They say it takes a village to raise a child and that is certainly true of our fostering community. Our foster carers work with the local authority to change the lives of local children and work as a vital part of that team around the child.  That sense of togetherness ensures that our children and young people have a safe place to call home, and are encouraged to explore their talents and achieve their dreams.”

Anyone who would like find out more about fostering for Tameside and become part of our fostering community should visit www.tameside.gov.uk/fostering or call 0161 342 2342 today.