Foster Care Fortnight in Hull, “This is Fostering”

Led by The Fostering Network, this annual fortnight shines a light on what fostering really is, the difference it makes, and the people who make it possible.

This year’s theme, “This is Fostering”, is about showing the reality of fostering in all its forms. The everyday moments, the challenges, the laughter, the patience, and the life changing impact it has on children and young people.

We are proud to stand alongside this national campaign.

We never stop working to find more local foster carers, but Foster Care Fortnight gives us a powerful opportunity to bring that message to more people, in more places, and in a way that feels real and relatable.

What we’re doing in Hull

Across the country, many fostering services will be holding celebration events for their carers and children. In Hull, we are no different.

We already have a busy calendar of activities for our fostering community, because we know how important it is for children and carers to feel connected, supported and valued. But we never miss an opportunity to come together even more.

During Foster Care Fortnight, we will be -

• Hosting a relaxed visit to a local farm, giving foster families the chance to enjoy a picnic, outdoor games and time with the animals
• Bringing our community together in a simple, meaningful way, creating memories and strengthening relationships
• Lighting up Hull City Hall and other landmark buildings in turquoise, to visibly show our support for fostering and the children in our care
• Holding live social media streams talking about fostering on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok
• Taking over 56 A1 poster boards all across the city for two weeks

Alongside this, we will be sharing real stories, real voices and real experiences of fostering in Hull, helping people understand what fostering truly looks like.

Our message this year, "Tell One Person".

While national messaging focuses on “This is Fostering”, in Hull we are asking our community to do one simple thing, tell one person.

Because the truth is, most people who go on to foster did not always plan to. It often starts with a conversation, a moment, someone they trust saying, “have you ever thought about fostering?”

We know that people are far more likely to explore something new when it comes from someone they know. A recommendation from a friend, a colleague, or a family member carries weight. It feels honest, and it makes fostering feel possible.

What does tell one person actually look like?

It could be -

• Sharing a social media post with your friends
• Mentioning fostering in a conversation at work
• Talking to a friend or family member who you think would make a great carer
• Pointing someone towards Hull Fostering’s website or information sessions

It does not have to be a big gesture. It just has to start a conversation.

Clearing up some of the common questions about fostering

We know there are lots of myths and questions around fostering. Here are some of the things people ask us most -

• “Do I have to foster full time?” - No. Fostering can be flexible. Some carers offer short breaks or weekend care, while others provide longer term homes.
• “Am I too old to foster?” - There is no upper age limit. What matters is your ability to provide a safe, stable and caring home.
• “Do I need to own my own home?” - No. You can rent or own your home, what matters is having the space and stability to care for a child.
• “Do I need experience?” - Not necessarily. Many skills from everyday life and work are transferable. Full training and ongoing support are provided.
• "Can I work and foster?” - Many carers balance fostering with other commitments. This will depend on the type of fostering you choose, and we will talk this through with you.

Why fostering locally matters

Like many areas, Hull faces increasing demand for foster carers. At the same time, there are private organisations recruiting carers, and it can sometimes be difficult for people to understand the differences.

At Hull Fostering, our focus is simple, we want to find safe and stable homes for Hull’s children.

Fostering locally means -

• children are more likely to stay close to their school, friends and support networks
• carers are supported by a local team who understand the city and its services
• decisions are made with the child’s long term stability and wellbeing at the centre
• you become part of a wider local community, not just a service

We are always honest about fostering. It is incredibly rewarding, but it also requires patience, resilience and commitment. Children who come into care need understanding, consistency and time.

What we also know is that, with the right support, foster carers can make a lasting difference that stays with a child for life.

It starts with one conversation

Foster Care Fortnight helps us reach more people, but real change happens in everyday moments, conversations at home, at work, and in the community.

If you are not able to foster yourself, you can still play a part.

Telling one person might not feel like much, but it could be the reason someone takes the first step towards helping a child in Hull to grow up feeling safe, settled and cared for.

That is the power of a simple conversation.

Find out more

If you, or someone you know, would like to learn more about fostering, we would love to hear from you.

• Visit www.hullfostering.co.uk
• Email fostering@hullcc.gov.uk
• Call 01482 612 800

Because together, we can make sure more children in Hull have the chance to grow up in a safe, supportive and loving home.