Give the gift of a home this Christmas

Derbyshire County Council is highlighting that the greatest gifts a child can receive this Christmas are safety and security.

For children in county council care, that gift could come through the warmth, stability and care of a foster family. Opening a home to a child in need can provide hope and comfort when it matters most.

The festive message encourages people to reflect on what really matters during this time of giving. Every child deserves a happy and healthy childhood, and together a brighter future can be shaped for every child.

Derbyshire County Council is part of the Foster for East Midlands Councils (FFEMC) regional partnership with Derby City, Nottinghamshire County and Nottingham City Councils, all working together to find loving homes for the children in our care.

FFEMC aims to increase the number of foster carers available in local communities so children who need support through a difficult time in their lives can stay near home, close to their family and remain at the same school with their friends.

Councillor Sam Redfern, Cabinet Member for Children and Families, said: “A foster home isn’t just a gift for Christmas – it’s hope, safety, and belonging that lasts all year.

“Across Derbyshire and the East Midlands, foster carers change lives every day, offering everything from emergency care to long-term support. If you’ve ever wondered whether you could make that difference, now is the time to find out.”

Prospective foster carers do not need to be perfect; they only need to care. Anyone can foster, regardless of their background or circumstances – working or not, renting or owning their own home, able-bodied or disabled, with or without children, sexuality and gender do not matter. You must be over 21 and have a bedroom for the sole use of a foster child, or 0–2-year-olds could share the foster carer’s bedroom.

Foster carers with FFEMC receive support through the assessment process, full training, a competitive package of benefits and ongoing support.

To find out more about how becoming a foster carer can change a child’s life – and the carer’s own – visit www.derbyshire.gov.uk/fostering