Stockport Council has launched a major recruitment drive to coincide with Foster Care Fortnight, running from May 11 to May 24. Under the 2026 theme “This is Fostering,” the initiative aims to highlight the daily realities of care and the profound impact local residents can have on children’s lives. The campaign focuses on the essential skills and dedication found within the Stockport community, seeking to expand the local network of support for vulnerable young people.
Throughout the month, the Stockport Council Fostering Service is hosting a series of public engagements. These sessions provide a platform for residents to learn about the fostering process, meet current carers, and understand the various ways they can contribute to a child’s wellbeing.
Public information sessions across the borough
Prospective carers can access information at several high-traffic locations across the town. Drop-in sessions are scheduled at the Hat Works and Merseyway Shopping Centre, providing convenient opportunities for shoppers and workers to ask questions in an informal setting. Additional events will be held at Stockport Town Hall, alongside a schedule of online webinars for those who prefer to engage remotely.
On Sunday, May 17, the fostering team will maintain a visible presence at the Bramhall Duck Race. This community event allows the team to engage with families in a relaxed environment while participating in the local festivities. These interactions are vital for demystifying the application process and explaining the different types of care required in the region.
Financial support and professional allowances
Stockport Council provides a comprehensive support package to ensure that financial concerns do not act as a barrier to fostering. Carers receive generous tax-free allowances designed to cover the day-to-day costs of looking after a child. These payments are structured to provide stability for both the household and the child in placement.
Beyond the standard allowance, the Council provides additional financial support for specific milestones and needs, including clothing, birthdays, and holiday expenses. This is complemented by a robust training program and 24/7 access to professional support, ensuring that foster families are never left to navigate challenges in isolation.
Local placements and eligibility requirements
The drive for new carers is open to any Stockport resident over the age of 21. The Council welcomes applications from individuals regardless of their marital status, sexual orientation, or whether they own or rent their home. The primary criteria are the ability to provide a stable, nurturing environment and the commitment to supporting a child’s development.
Maintaining children within their home borough is a critical priority for Stockport Council. Local placements allow children to remain in their current schools, stay close to their friends, and maintain existing support networks. This stability is often a deciding factor in the long-term success of a placement, reducing the trauma associated with moving to an unfamiliar area.
Accessing the Stockport fostering service
Individuals interested in exploring fostering can choose from several pathways to begin their journey. The Council offers various arrangements, from short-term emergency care lasting a few nights to long-term permanent homes.
Those looking for immediate information can visit the dedicated regional portal at fosterforgm.com/stockport or contact the recruitment team directly via telephone at 0300 303 0321. Detailed schedules for the upcoming drop-in sessions at Merseyway and the Hat Works are also maintained on the official council website to help residents plan their visit.
Source: Stockport Council
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