Northumberland has joined thirty-plus local councils and trusts to recruit more foster carers across England, with the national release of a new short film.

 

Councils around the country have worked together, shared ideas and jointly funded the creation of a film, aimed at helping to find more foster carers who can provide homes for children and young people who need them.

 

The short film, called ‘Out There’, highlights the ways fostering can make a difference to the lives of everyone involved, from the children and young people who live with foster carers, to those who come forward to care for them.

 

It follows earlier partnerships between Coventry and councils in the West Midlands that have produced award-winning films such as ‘Giants’ and ‘There was a Boy’.

 

Councillor Guy Renner-Thompson, cabinet member with responsibility for children’s services, said: “Sadly, there is still a great need for foster carers in our county and across the country.

 

“We are very fortunate to have many wonderful people who foster in the North East of England and they are supported by fantastic teams. Together they are making a real difference to many lives, but more needs to be done.

 

 “I urge residents in Northumberland to help us share this inspiring film across their social media channels and in their communities to help us get the message out there - showing what the many benefits of fostering are and how they too could help children and young people grow up in safe and nurturing homes.” 

 

Thirty-plus local authorities have been involved in the project, and the film will have a virtual premiere at midday on 12 October which will include an introduction from Kevin Williams, the Chief Executive of The Fostering Network and Martin Reeves from Coventry City Council. Everyone attending from the participating councils will then be asked to share the film via all social media platforms and help the message spread across the UK using the hashtag #FosterForYourCouncil

 

Cath McEvoy-Carr, Executive Director for Adult Social Care and Children’s Services, said: “We are so pleased to be a part of this national campaign to raise awareness of the need for more foster carers and the importance it plays in so many children and young people’s lives. The collaborative approach really demonstrates the progressive, creative thinking in local councils today.

 

“This film is both beautiful and poignant and captures many of the thoughts and emotions that are felt across the country currently, particularly as many people have reflected during the pandemic about their life choices and the importance of community support. 

 

The film will be available to watch and share from midday Tuesday 12 October on the Northumberland County Council Facebook, Linkedin and Twitter. To keep up to date with news of the film and learn more about fostering, visit the Northumberland County Council Fostering website at www.northumberland.gov.uk/foster