The Foster Care Fortnight Roadshow is a series of free drop in events aiming to recruit foster carers and give prospective carers the chance to quiz the fostering team and a current foster carer. The events will answer questions people have about becoming a foster carer and share the real life stories of those in care and caring.
The drop in session in Southmead will be at the Greenway Centre, Centre, Doncaster Road Southmead, BS10 5PY on the 18th May, 10am-1pm. There are also other drop-in sessions across Bristol, listed below.
The roadshow will coincide with the national Foster Care Fortnight, the UK’s biggest awareness raising campaign, delivered by leading fostering charity, The Fostering Network. Running for almost 20 years, the campaign showcases the commitment, passion and dedication of foster carers. Local authorities across the country will be holding events and raising awareness during the fortnight to encourage more people to come forward and consider fostering.
Councillor Helen Godwin, Cabinet Member for Women, Children and Families, said:
“The wellbeing and development of children in care is a major priority for the council and we have a 365 day a year focus on encouraging people to step forward to become carers. What foster carers provide for some of the most vulnerable children and young people in society is immeasurable. I’ve seen first-hand the positive impact a safe and loving home can have on a young person who has not had the best start in life.
“These free events are perfect opportunities for anyone from any background to find out more about fostering and how they can help a child in care fulfil their potential. Our experienced and knowledgeable team can answer your questions, give advice and share the stories that show just how important the role is.
“I am incredibly grateful for everything our current carers do and would encourage others to get in touch and find out more about beginning their own rewarding journey to making a major and positive difference to a child in care’s life.”
Alongside the roadshow events there will also be a social media campaign running for anyone wanting to show support for children in care. The #TheirFutureOurHands campaign will showcase images from across Bristol shared by people showing hands in support of children and young people in care.
To get involved visit the fostering team’s Twitter (@BCCFostering) or Facebook (/BristolFostering) to post an image showing your support.
The dates and venues of the Foster Care Fortnight Roadshow are:
• 14 May, 2pm to 5pm: Bishopston Library, BS7 8BN
• 15 May, 10.30am to 1pm: Fishponds Library, Hockeys Lane, Fishponds, BS16 3HL
• 17 May, 10am to 1pm: Easton Community Centre, Kilburn St, Easton, BS5 6AW
• 18 May, 10am to 1pm: Greenway Centre, Doncaster Road Southmead, BS10 5PY
• 19 May, 10.30m to 1.30pm: Ashton Court Café Courtyard, Ashton Court Park, BS41 9JN
• 20 May, 10am to 12.30pm: Elim Church, Jamaica Street, St Pauls
• 22 May, 10am to 1pm: Wellspring Living Centre, Barton Hill, BS5 9QY
• 23 May, 9.30am to 12.30pm: Shirehampton Public Hall, Station Road, Shirehampton, BS11 9TX
• 24 May, 10.30am to 1pm: The Park, Daventry Road, Knowle, BS4 1DQ
• 25 May, 10am to 1pm: The Southville Centre, Beauley Road, Southville, BS3 1QG