May 11th to the 24th is Foster Care Fortnight, and Bath and North East Somerset Council is marking the event by celebrating local carers and calling on more residents to consider opening their homes to a child in need.
This year’s theme, ‘This is Fostering’, shines a light on the everyday moments that make a lasting difference to children and young people.
Foster carers in B&NES have shared special moments in their fostering journey. One said, “When [their foster child] came to us they had never danced, and when we took them to a wedding, they danced for the first time.”
Another foster carer shared that their special moment was, “Going to the school play at Christmas and seeing his face light up with the most beautiful smile, and waving when he saw me in the audience.”
More foster homes are urgently needed to keep children of all ages who cannot remain living at home, local to their roots and communities. The council is urging people from all walks of life to come forward and join a supportive local fostering network.
Recently, the council’s unique Fostering Families service, which helps parents care for their children and keep them living safely at home, has been nominated for two MJ Awards and is gaining recognition as an example of best practice nationally.
Eleven families in B&NES are currently receiving this intensive support, helping them become the kind of parents they would like to be and helping keep their families together. Sixteen Fostering Families carers have now been approved.
Councillor Paul May, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, said: “Foster carers make an incredible, life‑changing difference through the small, everyday moments that help children feel safe and valued. As demand continues to rise, we urgently need more people to step forward. By fostering with the council, you’ll receive dedicated training, ongoing support and a competitive allowance, and you’ll play a vital role in helping children stay connected to their schools, friends and communities.”
As a not-for-profit provider, the council offers regular payments, 25% discount on council tax, comprehensive training and continuous support to all foster carers. Keeping children close to home remains a priority, helping them maintain important relationships and stability.
In February, the council invested £500,000 to fund home alterations for existing foster carers to enable them to care for more children.
Residents interested in fostering can find out more and begin their journey by contacting the council’s fostering team. Fill in the online form on the council’s Fostering website, call 01225 394949 or email fostering@bathnes.gov.uk
