Fostering South West, a partnership of 15 local councils, is appealing for people who can provide children in care with the love and stability they need to thrive. With a growing number of children requiring foster care, the organisation is looking for individuals and families who are ready to offer long-term care, support sibling groups, and care for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
An Urgent Need for Carers in Specific Areas
As the number of children in care continues to grow, Fostering South West is especially focused on recruiting foster carers in several areas of high demand. The initiative is calling for carers from regions including Bath and North East Somerset, Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole, Bristol, Cornwall, Devon, Gloucestershire, Isles of Scilly, North Somerset, Plymouth, Somerset, South Gloucestershire, Swindon, Torbay, and Wiltshire.
Many of these areas are seeing a rise in the number of children in need of foster care, and Fostering South West is seeking carers who can offer a safe, supportive environment to children from a wide range of backgrounds.
Fostering: A Rewarding Experience
Fostering isn’t without its challenges, but it can be an incredibly rewarding journey. One carer shared, “Fostering has been one of the most fulfilling experiences of my life. It’s not always easy, but watching the children I care for overcome obstacles and build a brighter future is incredibly rewarding. I know that, in some small way, I am helping to change their lives for the better.”
Fostering South West emphasises that the emotional rewards of fostering come not just from the difference made in a child’s life, but from the personal growth and fulfilment foster carers experience as well.
Support Every Step of the Way
Fostering South West provides 24/7 support, specialist training, and a strong network of carers to help new carers feel confident and prepared. Whether it’s guidance on trauma care or tips for supporting children with SEND, Fostering South West ensures that carers have access to all the tools they need.
“We want to make sure our carers feel confident and supported every step of the way,” says Ian Jarman. “Fostering is a big commitment, but with the right support, it can be one of the most rewarding experiences of your life.”
A Wide Network of Support
Fostering South West works with local councils in Bath and North East Somerset, Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole, Bristol, Cornwall, Devon, Gloucestershire, Isles of Scilly, North Somerset, Plymouth, Somerset, South Gloucestershire, Swindon, Torbay, and Wiltshire. The wide-reaching network means that foster carers can access support and resources specific to their region.
How to Get Involved
Fostering South West is calling for compassionate individuals and families in these regions to come forward and offer a loving, stable home to children in need. To learn more about fostering or to start your fostering journey, visit www.fosterwithyourlocalcouncil.org.uk, email info@fosterwithyourlocalcouncil.org.uk, or call 0300 456 0120. Your decision to foster could change a child’s life—and your own.