Celebrating our foster carers

Foster Communities is the theme of this year's Foster Care Fortnight, an annual campaign from The Fostering Network showcasing the commitment, passion and dedication of foster carers.

At Wokingham Borough Council, building communities among foster carers is key to helping them feel supported. 

Sian is a new foster carer with the council and has made dozens of new friends through the borough’s fostering network, some of whom she already counts among her closest friends. Sian also benefits from formal support when needed.

Part of a wonderful community

Sian said: “The support and the community around being a foster carer, the support I get from other foster carers, I just feel like I’m part of a wonderful community now, which I wasn’t expecting.  

"I feel I’ve got 40 new fantastic friends that are all foster carers themselves and support from supervising social workers.”

Opportunities to network

There are lots of opportunities for foster carers to get together, with a range of events taking place throughout the year.

Last month, foster carers enjoyed a day out together at Cliveden National Trust for The Festival of Blossom and took part in activities including yoga, music and kimono making, and on Saturday foster carers and members of the fostering team got together at Dinton Pastures for a walk round the lake.

The biggest event in the annual fostering calendar took place on Friday, with foster carers invited to a celebration and thank you lunch at Wokingham Cricket Club. 

It was attended by newly elected Mayor Councillor Beth Rowland, and all foster carers were given a small gift to thank them for the work they do. 

A vital role in our communities

Councillor Prue Bray, executive member for children’s services said: “Foster carers play a vital role in our communities by providing a safe space for children to live, learn and grow.

“While we celebrate the work our foster carers do all year round, it is great to have this opportunity during Foster Care Fortnight to highlight once again the irreplaceable role they take.

“We would love to have you join our thriving foster care community, so please do get in touch with our team at fostering@wokingham.gov.uk to find out more.”

Support for foster carers

Wokingham Borough Council offers a great range of support for foster carers, including:

• Council tax exemption
• From £140 a week per child you foster, plus extra for summer activities, birthdays and Christmas
• A range of training opportunities
• 24 hour support from our fostering team
• Local groups and family activities
   

For more information visit the fostering website or email fostering@wokingham.gov.uk.