Buckinghamshire Council has launched a fresh appeal for new foster carers as Foster Care Fortnight 2026 gets underway. The national campaign, running from 11 to 24 May, highlights the urgent requirement for stable, compassionate environments for more than 500 young people currently in the county’s care system.
Led by The Fostering Network, this year’s theme, “This Is Fostering,” aims to shed light on the daily reality of the role. It celebrates the transformative power of foster care while acknowledging the pressures facing the community. During the 2025–26 period, the council successfully approved 42 new foster carers, yet the demand for local placements continues to outpace the number of available homes.
Addressing the needs of 500 Buckinghamshire children
Carl Jackson, Cabinet Member for Education and Children’s Services, emphasized that foster carers provide essential stability during a child’s most vulnerable moments. By offering a safe environment, carers enable children to feel valued and capable of thriving despite past trauma. The council is particularly interested in hearing from individuals who can provide therapeutic care or support for children with complex needs.
Local carers describe the experience as a journey of healing and learning. Many speak of the reward found in hearing laughter return to a home and knowing they are helping to shape a brighter future for a child in their own community. This local connection is vital, as it often allows children to remain close to their schools and existing support networks.
Trauma-informed training at the annual carers’ conference
To support the existing network, the council recently held its annual Foster Carers’ Conference. This year’s event focused on “Relational Repair,” featuring Dr Karen Treisman as the keynote speaker. As a leading expert in trauma and attachment, Dr Treisman provided insights into building trust and empathy with vulnerable children.
The training is part of a broader commitment to ensure Buckinghamshire carers are equipped with the latest trauma-informed techniques. This level of professional support is a core component of the “Foster with Bucks” community, ensuring no carer has to navigate the challenges of fostering alone.
Expanding the Fostering Friendly business network
Beyond individual households, the council is calling on the local business community to step forward. Through the “Fostering Friendly” initiative, organisations can pledge practical support for foster families. This includes implementing flexible working hours, supportive HR policies, or providing special offers for foster families.
Similar initiatives are being seen across the country, such as fostering reality in West Northamptonshire, where community pledges are becoming a standard part of the support framework. By becoming Fostering Friendly, local employers play a direct role in making the fostering journey more sustainable for residents.
The practical picture
| Metric | Detail |
|---|---|
| Children in Care | 500+ in Buckinghamshire |
| New Carers (2025-26) | 42 approved |
| Campaign Dates | 11 – 24 May 2026 |
| Specialist Needs | Therapeutic and complex care placements |
Residents interested in learning more can attend local information events or sign up for updates through the council’s dedicated fostering portal. Whether providing short-term emergency cover or long-term specialist care, every new placement helps reduce the pressure on the local system and provides a child with the security they deserve.
Source: Buckinghamshire Council
/linkComments