Cumbria Fostering shines a light on ‘the power of relationships’ this Foster Care Fortnight
This Foster Care Fortnight (12- 25 May), Cumbria Fostering is calling on local people to consider fostering by sharing the stories of our incredible foster carers in a new short film.
Led by the Fostering Network charity, Foster Care Fortnight is the annual campaign to raise the profile of fostering and show how it transforms lives.
This year’s theme, ‘The Power of Relationships’, celebrates the bonds that change lives - from the connection between a foster carer and a child, to the supportive network of professionals, peers, and families who all play a part in a child’s journey. These relationships shape lives and open doors to brighter futures.
Foster carers Dan Bell and his partner Chris, from Barrow, are featured in our new film - talking about their fostering journey. Dan said: “We started fostering as ‘connected family’ foster carers for a member of our family, who we gave a home to up until he was 19. Since then we’ve become mainstream carers and have fostered several children over the past two years.”
The couple, who currently care for two young siblings, have found fostering extremely fulfilling and would encourage others to follow in their footsteps. Dan said: “Just do it! If you have the time, space, patience – it is worth it. You might have hard days but you have many good days and there’s nothing you can’t navigate with all the support out there; from family, friends, social workers and other carers. Why wouldn’t you want to do it? We give it our all and we love it.”
Another foster carer Gen Spencer, from south Cumbria, fosters a sibling group of two sisters, alongside her husband Neil. In the film she talks about the support and training they receive to help them develop the skills to manage any challenges. She said: “Neil and I have our own social worker who comes to see us at least once a month and there is loads of training and local support groups where you meet up with other carers, it’s been brilliant.”
Could you be the person who changes a child’s future? Whether you’re single, married, retired, or working, fostering is open to people from all walks of life. We provide full training, ongoing support, and have a network of more than 250 local foster carers who will walk this journey with you.
Cllr Emma Williamson, Executive Member for Children and Family Wellbeing at Cumberland Council, said:
“Foster Care Fortnight is a vital opportunity to shine a light on the incredible work of our foster carers and the life-changing difference they make to children and young people across the county.
“This year’s theme, ‘The Power of Relationships’, speaks directly to the heart of fostering - it’s about connection, care and community.
“I wholeheartedly support Cumbria Fostering’s campaign and encourage anyone who’s ever thought about fostering to get in touch and discover how they could change a child’s future. You’ll be supported every step of the way.”
Cllr Janet Battye, Cabinet member Children’s Services Education and Skills at Westmorland & Furness Council, said:
“Here in Cumbria, we are proud of the dedicated support we offer to our foster carers—from comprehensive training and financial assistance to ongoing guidance and a strong local community.
“Foster Care Fortnight is not only a chance to celebrate the incredible role our carers play, but also to show that fostering is something you can do with the right support behind you.
“Whether you're just curious or ready to take the first step, I encourage you to come along to one of our events and find out how you can become part of Cumbria’s biggest family.”
Attend an information event during Foster Care Fortnight
We’re hosting a number of information events during the fortnight where you can learn more about fostering and hear directly from those who are already making a difference:
- Friday 16 May – Visit our information stand at Workington Library, Vulcan's Lane, CA14 2ND, from 1pm to 3pm.
- Tuesday 20 May – Join our online fostering information event from 6pm to 7pm. We’ll share a short presentation and you’ll hear first-hand experiences from local foster carers. To register, please visit our event booking page.
- Saturday 24 May – Come along to our formal information event at Penrith Library (downstairs meeting room) from 11am to 1pm. The session includes a presentation, stories from foster carers, and a chance to speak with our team. To register, please visit our event booking page.
If you’ve ever thought about fostering - or are simply curious - now is the perfect time to find out more.
For more information, please visit cumbriafostering.org.uk