Foster Care Fortnight Celebrates the Power of Relationships in Foster Care

Strategic Insights -

Over 260 foster carers, children, and families from across the East Midlands came together for a sunshine-filled day at Shipley Park to celebrate Foster Care Fortnight 2025. Organised by Foster for East Midlands Councils, the event was a special way to say thank you to our incredible foster carers and raise awareness about the importance of fostering. This year's theme was "The Power of Relationships", and it really came to life on the day.

The event was packed with exciting activities, including a bouncy castle, African drumming, arts and crafts, mini trampoline bouncing, dancing, and even kickboxing. There was even a 'best dressed dog' competition, as we know our furry friends form part of fostering families too! Families also got to take part in a Foster Walk, inspired by the national campaign led by The Fostering Network. Collectively, foster carers and their families walked over 40 miles around the beautiful park, waving fostering flags and showing pride in their community.

The event also saw the celebration of foster carers' hard work and dedication. Cllr Paul Hezelgrave, Lead Council's Cabinet Member for Foster for East Midlands Councils, said: Foster carers are true champions for children in our community. The love, stability, and care they provide helps young people feel safe and confident to move forward in life. We are incredibly grateful for their dedication, and events like this are just one way we can say thank you and show them how valued they are.

Key Takeaways:

  • 260 foster carers, children, and families attended the event at Shipley Park to celebrate Foster Care Fortnight 2025.
  • The event was organized by Foster for East Midlands Councils, consisting of Derby City, Nottingham City, Nottinghamshire County, and Derbyshire County Councils.
  • The theme this year was "The Power of Relationships", which truly came to life through various activities and interactions.
  • The event featured a bouncy castle, African drumming, arts and crafts, mini trampoline bouncing, dancing, and kickboxing, as well as a 'best dressed dog' competition.
  • Families participated in a Foster Walk, inspired by the national campaign led by The Fostering Network, walking over 40 miles around the park.
  • Cllr Paul Hezelgrave praised foster carers, stating that they are true champions for children in their community, providing love, stability, and care that helps young people feel safe and confident.
  • The event was a reminder of the importance of foster carers and the value they bring to children's lives.

Statistics:

  • 260 individuals attended the event.
  • The event was held at Shipley Park.
  • Over 40 miles were walked by foster carers and their families during the Foster Walk.
  • The event featured a range of activities, including a bouncy castle, African drumming, arts and crafts, mini trampoline bouncing, dancing, and kickboxing.

Sources:

  • City of Derby
  • Foster for East Midlands Councils
  • Foster for East Midlands Councils - Derby City, Nottingham City, Nottinghamshire County, and Derbyshire County Councils
  • The Fostering Network