Hounslow (Parliament Politics Magazine) – Hounslow Council has unveiled a bold new fostering campaign urging more residents to open their homes and hearts to children in need of care and stability.
This demonstrates how the position not only improves the lives of children and adolescents but also enhances the lives of foster parents.
Hounslow is adopting a novel strategy in light of the UK’s declining foster caregiver population and the tendency of younger generations to exclude themselves before considering a proposal. The new ad, Grow in New Ways, shows how people’s current values, experiences, and abilities may make them excellent caregivers, challenging antiquated ideas about fostering.
Councillor Samia Chaudhary, Cabinet Member for Education, Children, Skills, and Employment at Hounslow Council, said:
“Fostering is one of the most rewarding things you can do – giving a child safety, stability, and love at a time they need it most. But it’s also a journey of growth for carers themselves. This campaign shows that fostering isn’t about becoming someone new – it’s about bringing out who you are and discovering how much more you can give.”
Steven Forbes, Executive Director of Children’s and Adults Services at Hounslow Council added: “The new campaign highlights the benefits of becoming a foster carer for your local authority when we need them most. Our cared for children receive the best possible care in their local community and new carers will be fully supported by a dedicated team.”
The announcement was created in collaboration with Eleven, a strategy- driven creative establishment that specializes in campaigns with a social impact. It focuses on a new followership of professionals, couples, and people over 30 who may not have been previously allowed of fostering but are driven by purpose, connection, and particular development using feedback from original caregivers and residents.
Fulfillment, Community, Growth, and Belonging are among the issues that are expressed as online searches and are at the heart of the creative.
This month, the campaign will launch on digital channels like Google Search and Meta, bolstered by anecdotes from nearby foster parents and chances for locals to learn more about the procedure in an approachable manner.
What training and support do new Hounslow foster carers get?
No previous experience is needed; all necessary training is handed. An introductory online course called “Chops to Foster” is part of the assessment process, giving a helpful overview and occasion to ask questions.
Once approved, foster caregivers have access to an expansive training program acclimatized to their requirements, including both online and in- person sessions. Specialised training is available for minding for children with specific requirements or challenges.
After approval, each foster guardian is allocated a supervising social worker who offers 24/7 support and guidance.Foster caregivers are encouraged to continue developing chops through ongoing training covering keeping, child protection, attachment, first aid, trauma, and more.