Celebrating Foster Care Fortnight 2025: A Power of Relationships

Over 260 foster carers, children, and families gathered at Shipley Park for a sunny celebration of Foster Care Fortnight 2025. Organized by Foster for East Midlands Councils, the event highlighted the importance of fostering and the vital role foster carers play in supporting children who cannot live with their birth families. The theme of "The Power of Relationships" was brought to life through laughter, conversation, and activities that showcased the strong bonds between foster families and the community.

Key Takeaways:

• The event brought together 260 foster carers, children, and families from across the East Midlands to celebrate Foster Care Fortnight 2025.
• The theme of "The Power of Relationships" was centred around the importance of fostering and the strong bonds between foster families and the community.
• Activities included a bouncy castle, African drumming, arts and crafts, mini trampoline bouncing, dancing, and kickboxing.
• A "best dressed dog" competition was also held, as foster families often have pets that are part of their family.
• A Foster Walk was organized, inspired by the national campaign led by The Fostering Network, where families collectively walked over 40 miles around the park.
• Entertainment was provided by the Plus One Theatre Group, who brought music, dancing, and energy to the stage.
• Tasty treats and free ice cream were donated by the Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) organisation and the food producer SmartParc SERGO Derby.
• A foster carer family, the Ross family, attended the event and expressed their appreciation for the hard work and effort that goes into organizing such events.
• A new person considering fostering also attended the event and reported feeling inspired to get more involved after seeing the positive impact of foster carers.
• Rok-Ard Kickboxing team participated in the event and reported positive feedback from families who attended their session.

Statistics:

• 260 foster carers, children, and families attended the event.
• 40 miles were walked by families during the Foster Walk.
• All activities, including ice cream and treats, were provided for free by local organizations.

Sources:

• The event was organized by Foster for East Midlands Councils, made up of Derby City, Nottingham City, Nottinghamshire County, and Derbyshire County Councils.
• The theme of "The Power of Relationships" was inspired by The Fostering Network's national campaign.
• Quotes were attributed to Cllr Paul Hezelgrave, Lead Council's Cabinet Member for Foster for East Midlands Councils, and the Ross foster family, as well as the Rok-Ard Kickboxing team.