Day of Celebrations Held to Thank South West’s Incredible Foster Carers

Foster families across the South West were treated to a day of fun and appreciation as part of a first-of-its-kind celebration recognising the vital role they play in children’s lives.

A Special Thank You

More than 1,500 people attended events at Newquay Zoo, Paignton Zoo, Monkey World, Bristol Zoo Project, and Cotswold Wildlife Park on Wednesday, 19th February. Organised by Fostering South West, a hub uniting fostering efforts across 15 councils, the day marked the first time a co-ordinated event of this scale had been held in the region.

Foster families enjoyed a relaxed and fun-filled day, spending time together, spotting exotic animals, and taking part in special activities arranged at each venue. The events also provided an opportunity to connect with other fostering families, strengthening local support networks.

Carrie Worth, Fostering South West Team Manager, described the day as a landmark moment for fostering families:

“Today was something very unique and special. It is the first time local authority foster carers and children from across the South West have come together and been able to unite with other fostering families. Today was our way of saying thank you to families who foster for all their amazing work, passion and dedication.

“The support from each of the venues has been wonderful in helping to organise and support fostering families to have such a fun and enjoyable day out. We’ve seen foster carers and children making new connections, forging of new friendships and children and adults alike having lots of fun.”

A Day to Remember

Foster carers praised the opportunity to come together and share their experiences. One local council foster carer said:

“We all had such a lovely day and the children had beaming smiles on their faces all day. It was great to see some familiar faces, put faces to names but also widen our network of fellow foster carers across the region.”

Cornwall Council’s cabinet member for children and families, Cllr Barbara Ellenbroek, highlighted the importance of recognising foster carers’ commitment:

“I’m glad these events proved such a success because it is nothing more than these amazing families and young people deserve.

“Fostering is an absolute joy but it can also be very difficult so it is really important that we not only recognise our carers’ dedication and devotion but we also give them opportunities to meet up, support each other and have fun.

“Without foster carers, many children and young people in care would never know what it is like to grow up in a loving and nurturing household. I am incredibly proud of all our foster carers in Cornwall, and of the wonderful young people in their care.”

Supporting the Future of Fostering

Fostering South West, which launched in April last year, provides a central recruitment hub for those interested in fostering, ensuring they receive support from the very start. The scheme helps recruit carers from a variety of backgrounds and circumstances while prioritising keeping children within their local communities.

Local council foster carers benefit from extensive training, substantial financial support, and continuous assistance from a dedicated non-profit organisation, helping to ensure both carers and children receive the best possible support.

For more information on fostering for your local council, visit Fostering South West’s website or contact their recruitment team via 0300 456 0120 or info@fosterwithyourlocalcouncil.org.uk.

Photo: Foster carers Duncan and Jo attended the celebratory event at Newquay Zoo.