Help promote fostering with Essex

In recent years, a pandemic, global wars and a cost of living crisis has made it tougher to recruit foster carers. Unfortunately, on our doorstep in the East of England over 1000 children are in care at any given time.

We're working with local organisations to raise awareness of this dire situation. By spreading the word, we can find more foster carers. More foster carers will give more children in Essex a safe, loving home and the chance of a better future.

Why support fostering with Essex?

You may not know, but foster carers choose between fostering with their local council or a private fostering agency. Many fostering agencies are private businesses, with profit goals and stakeholders to impress. However, for Essex County Council, our only motivation is helping vulnerable children thrive. See other benefits of fostering with Essex County Council.

Can you work while fostering?

Fostering is a flexible role, with different types of fostering available. You can become a foster carer from one weekend a month. Reports show almost 40% of UK foster carers combine fostering with other work.

Essex's fostering team work with every family to choose a type of fostering that works for them. Mental health is important too, we don't want anyone to feel overwhelmed. Our foster carers have access to support groups and mental health professionals. See other support our foster carers receive.

Here's how your organisation can help

Promoting fostering supports the most vulnerable children in our communities. Showing support will not disrupt your business, but ultimately, it could change lives. Here are some ways your team can support fostering in Essex.

Chat with our marketing team

We're happy to compile specific content, or chat through what you need for your audience. Please send an email to fostering.marketing@essex.gov.uk and we'll get in touch.

Sharing our marketing content

By sharing content, a social media post or a note in your email newsletter, it could reach the right person. This could be to your staff, and/or your audience. We're happy to supply content, ready for you to copy and share on your channels.

Host a fostering information event

Our fostering team host a range of information events. This is a casual space to ask our foster carers and social work team any questions. Hosting a stand in your workspace, a break out room or reception area, can help us be present in more communities.

Sign-up to our email newsletter

Keep up to date with campaigns and fostering in Essex. Sign up to our partners newsletter for resources from the marketing team.

Sign up for emails