Fostering communities from the 4 authorities that make up the Foster for East Midlands Councils (FFEMC) partnership gathered to mark its achievements since being set up in March 2024.
FFEMC 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.
As well as celebrating achievements, the event was also a chance to highlight the importance of play, fun and mutual support while recognising the vital work foster carers do every day.
Organised by Mockingbird, which provides enhanced peer support and stronger community-based care for fostering families, it featured a range of activities such as baby play, yoga, crafts and dance while families, staff and councillors enjoyed a shared picnic.
Guests were also asked 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.
Director for Family Help and Children’s Social Care Adele Glover, who is pictured with her pledge, said: “It was such a lovely atmosphere and really brought our fostering communities together.
“We have many generational carers whose own children have gone on to become carers themselves and we wanted everyone to feel valued and looked after on the day to show our appreciation for everything they do.”