Fostering in the London Borough of Bexley is moving away from traditional stereotypes to focus on the authentic, everyday connections that define modern care. From Monday, 11 May to Sunday, 24 May 2026, the local community will join the national Foster Care Fortnight campaign to highlight the profound impact local residents have on the lives of children and young people.
Led by The Fostering Network, this year’s campaign operates under the theme “This Is Fostering.” The initiative aims to provide a transparent look at the reality of foster care, moving beyond simplified narratives to showcase the stability, resilience, and genuine care provided by Bexley households.
Realities of modern care in the borough
The 2026 campaign shines a spotlight on the diverse range of people who step forward to provide homes for vulnerable youth. In Bexley, the focus remains on the human element—the meaningful relationships that help children feel a sense of belonging. Stephen Kitchman, Director of Children’s Services at the London Borough of Bexley, notes that foster carers make an extraordinary difference every single day, providing the foundation for young people to thrive.
Fostering has transitioned into a more collaborative effort. The current landscape prioritizes the emotional well-being of both the child and the carer, ensuring that the environment is one of mutual growth. This year’s theme reflects this evolution, emphasizing that fostering is as much about connection and community as it is about providing a safe roof.
Peer support through the Fostering Together network
One of the most significant developments in local care is the Fostering Together model. This approach moves away from the idea of foster families working in isolation. Instead, it creates a robust ecosystem of support where experience and guidance are shared freely.
Each Fostering Together community consists of six to eight families who form a tight-knit support group. At the center of this group is a Core Carer—an experienced foster carer who provides leadership and peer support. These Core Carers coordinate essential activities, including social events and sleepovers, ensuring that no family feels they are navigating the challenges of fostering alone.
A local Bexley foster carer described the experience as deeply rewarding, noting that the sense of community is vital. Knowing there is always someone to talk to or lean on helps carers maintain the resilience needed to provide long-term stability for children.
Local events and honest conversations this May
To help residents understand the process, several engagement opportunities are scheduled throughout Foster Care Fortnight. These sessions are designed to provide a space for open and honest dialogue about the requirements and rewards of the role.
| Event Type | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Let’s Talk Fostering (Online) | Virtual Q&A sessions with current carers and social workers. |
| In-person Outreach | Community events across Bexley for face-to-face inquiries. |
| Peer Support Briefings | Insights into the Fostering Together community model. |
These events allow residents to hear real-life stories and ask practical questions about the application process. The goal is to demystify the journey and show that fostering is an attainable and supported path for many local families.
Comprehensive support for new Bexley carers
The need for local foster carers remains high, and the borough provides a full suite of resources to ensure new carers are prepared. Eligibility is broad: whether you are single or married, a homeowner or a renter, working or retired, the primary requirement is the ability to offer a stable and caring environment.
Bexley provides all foster carers with:
* Comprehensive initial and ongoing training.
* Financial support to cover the costs of caring for a child.
* 24/7 guidance and access to professional social work teams.
* Integration into the Fostering Together peer-support network.
Residents interested in exploring these opportunities can contact the fostering team directly at 020 3045 4400 or visit the dedicated Foster for Bexley portal to register for upcoming events. Taking the first step during Foster Care Fortnight could lead to a life-changing journey for both the carer and a local child in need of a home.
Source: London Borough of Bexley
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