Residents across Somerset are warmly invited to drop in to one of Fostering in Somerset’s friendly events this May and discover how they could make a real difference to a child’s life.
Timed to coincide with Foster Care Fortnight, the UK’s biggest campaign to raise awareness of fostering, the events are a great chance to learn more in a relaxed and welcoming setting.
Foster Care Fortnight runs from 11 to 24 May and celebrates the life changing impact foster carers have, while encouraging more people to consider fostering.
With more than 650 children in care currently in Somerset, more local foster carers are needed to help children stay close to their schools, friends and communities.
The drop-in sessions are designed to be informal and supportive, giving people the chance to explore fostering at their own pace. There is no pressure to take things further.
Visitors can enjoy a free coffee and slice of cake while chatting to local foster carers and friendly staff. They will be happy to share their experiences, answer questions, and explain the support available, including training and weekly payments.
Whether you are just curious or have been thinking about fostering for a while, these sessions are a simple first step.
Upcoming sessions
- Thursday 14 May from 10.30am to 1pm at Fosso Lounge, 41 High St, Wells BA5 2AE
- Thursday 14 May from 6pm to 8pm at Costa Coffee, Riverside Retail Park, Hankridge Way, Taunton TA1 2LR
- Tuesday 19 May from 10.30am to 1pm at Victoria Park Community Centre, Victoria Park Drive, Bridgwater, TA6 7AS
- Tuesday 19 May from 6pm to 8pm at Costa Coffee, Unit 8, Townsend Shopping Park, Shepton Mallet BA4 5EG
Cllr Heather Shearer, Lead Member for Children, Families and Education, said:
Every child deserves to feel safe, loved and part of a family. Foster carers make that happen every single day, giving children the chance to feel settled, build trust and look forward to the future.
I know it can feel like a big step, but you are not alone. Our carers are fully supported, and these drop-in events are a really easy way to start a conversation and find out what fostering is truly like.
I would warmly encourage anyone who has even a small thought about fostering to come along. You could be the person who changes a child’s life, and in so many ways, it can change yours too.
To find out more, visit Fostering in Somerset’s Get involved page or follow @FosteringInSomerset on Facebook, Instagram or X (formerly Twitter).
