A new government initiative has been launched to recruit 10,000 more foster carers across the UK. This campaign comes as the number of foster carers has fallen by 12% since 2021, while the demand for placements continues to rise.
Amy Burns, 26, from Bristol, spoke at the Downing Street launch, crediting foster care with providing her stability and a future after entering the system at 14. She stated, "Fostering definitely saved my life. If I wasn't fostered I don't know who I'd have ended up with."
The campaign promotes regional fostering hubs, including those in the South West, and aims to attract people from diverse backgrounds and encourage more flexible fostering arrangements. Children and Families Minister Josh MacAlister suggested that more people, including those in their 20s, 30s, or 40s, might now consider part-time weekend fostering.
Wes, a single parent from Yate, South Gloucestershire, who has fostered and adopted children for 14 years, also supports the campaign. He believes many people rule themselves out prematurely and encourages potential carers not to be deterred by concerns about finances or the challenges children may present.
Jon Hubbard, Wiltshire Council's cabinet member for children's services, highlighted that a shortage of foster homes leads to more children in residential care, which can be significantly more expensive at £318,000 per year. He emphasised that recruiting foster carers not only helps young people but also saves a considerable amount of money.