Central Bedfordshire Council news and press releases

Videos to mark Foster Care Fortnight

Thursday, 16 May 2024

We have launched a series of videos featuring a local couple who are foster carers, and are hosting 2 events so anyone interested in fostering can find out more.

Debbie and Geoff have been foster carers for 4 years, and are currently caring for a teenager. In the 3 videos, they talk about why they decided to become foster carers, and clear up some common misunderstandings about foster care.

The couple also describe 1 of their proudest moments as foster carers, which was when a 10-month-old boy they were fostering took his first steps and said his first words in their care.

Geoff said:

Foster carers come in all shapes and sizes […] and I’m really proud to be a foster carer. You don’t have to be a certain type of person; you just have to be kind and open with your family. Your family have to be on board, as the children will be part of your family.

To coincide with the video launch and Foster Care Fortnight, we are hosting 2 events to give others who are interested in becoming foster carers an insight into the process. Being held at Leighton Buzzard library on Tuesday 21 May, from midday to 2pm, and at Biggleswade library on Wednesday 22 May, from 10am to midday, attendees will have the opportunity to find out more about what’s involved in becoming a foster carer.

Councillor Hayley Whitaker, Executive Member for Families, Education and Children,

Fostering a child is more than providing a home; it's about offering stability, love, and opportunities. When people become foster carers, they make a real difference in a child's life. Foster Care Fortnight is a chance to celebrate amazing people like Debbie and Geoff who open their hearts and homes to children and young people who need them. We hope their videos will inspire more people to think about fostering and supporting children and young people in Central Bedfordshire. Please do head along to our events if you’d like to find out more. There is no need to register, and it’s free to attend.

Find out more about fostering.

Anyone who can’t make it to the drop in sessions can request an information pack, or call 0300 300 8181 to have a chat with the team.