Herefordshire Council celebrates Foster Care Fortnight

Herefordshire Council is proud to support Foster Care Fortnight, running from Monday 11 May to Sunday 24 May, joining organisations across the UK in raising awareness of the vital role foster carers play in the lives of children and young people.

The annual campaign highlights the dedication and impact of the fostering community, with this year's theme, 'This is Fostering', celebrating and raising awareness of the different stories across the fostering community.

Herefordshire Foster Carer, Rebecca, shares her story and why she thinks being part of the fostering community is so important.

Rebecca says: "Fostering is important because it provides young people with safety, stability and the support they need to grow, heal and thrive. Sometimes, having just one person believe in you, support you, or guide you, can completely change the direction of your life. As foster carers, we have the opportunity to be part of that journey for a young person and help equip them with the tools, confidence and support they need for their future.

"For me, fostering is both rewarding and humbling. It's a privilege to walk alongside a young person through different stages of their life, to witness their growth, hear their laughter, celebrate their achievements and support them through challenges. Children and young people are our future and many already hold incredible resilience despite the difficulties they may have faced.

"I chose to foster because I understand the importance of support during difficult times and the difference it can make when someone is simply there for you. Being able to give back, share experiences and provide a safe and nurturing environment is something I value deeply.

"I think many people can find the idea of fostering daunting at first, but there is a wide support network available, and no foster carer works alone. It really does take a community to raise a child. What may begin as a placement can grow into a lasting bond and have a truly life-changing impact for both the young person and the foster carer."
Councillor Ivan Powell, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, added: "We are proud to support Foster Care Fortnight and celebrate the incredibly important work of our foster carers. On behalf of Herefordshire Council, I'd like to thank them all for providing safe and loving homes for our children and young people

"All of our foster carers have a story to tell about their own fostering journey, including the challenges they've overcome and the many benefits of being able to make a positive difference to a child's life.

"Over the past two financial years we've seen a 266% increase in households joining us as foster carers. We also have a further 10 households currently going through the assessment process.

"We are always looking for more people to join our fostering community and help make a difference to the lives of local children and young people. If you, a friend, family member or someone you know may be interested in fostering, visit our Council website for more information www.herefordshire.gov.uk/fostering"