Derbyshire celebrates fostering partnership at Fun Day

Derbyshire foster carers, young people, professionals and senior councillors enjoyed a fun day to celebrate the success of a partnership which aims to find local homes for local children.

The event marked the continued growth of Foster for East Midlands Councils – a regional fostering recruitment hub established by Derby City Council, Derbyshire County Council, Nottingham City Council and Nottinghamshire County Council.

It brought together fostering communities from all the councils involved to celebrate the achievements and future ambitions of the partnership for a day of special activities at the Post Mill Centre in South Normanton.

It also highlighted the importance of play, fun and mutual support between fostering families, while recognising and celebrating the vital work foster carers do every day.

The partnership was created though funding from the Department of Education to strengthen foster carer recruitment and retention and help ensure more children remain close to their schools, communities, friends and support networks.

Since launching in March 2024, the partnership has generated nearly 2,700 enquiries, progressed more than 200 applications and achieved up to 75 new fostering households across the region, delivering growth at a time when fostering numbers are declining nationally.

The day was organised by Mockingbird, which provides enhanced peer support and stronger community-based care for fostering families and a range of activities were enjoyed throughout the event alongside a shared picnic.

Derbyshire County Council Cabinet Member for SEND and Education Councillor Simon Mabbott was joined by foster carers, families and fostering professionals to take part in a symbolic “Pledge of Support”, writing personal pledges on cardboard bricks which formed a wall beside a two-metre house installation.

Together, the display represented the shared commitment to building strong foundations for children and young people in care.

Councillor Mabbott said: “It was an honour to attend the event and meet our carers who give so much to support young people when they need it most.”

The county council’s Cabinet Member Cllr Paul Maginnis also wrote a pledge saying: “Creating lasting security for children. Rooting young people in our community. Championing local foster carers.”

The event also reflected on the Government’s national fostering reform programme which aims to create 10,000 additional foster placements across the UK by 2029.

If you’re inspired, why not consider fostering? Call 03033 132 950 or visit fosterforeastmidlands.org.uk to learn more.