Foster Care Fortnight 2026 – ‘This Is Fostering’

13 May 2026

To mark Foster Care Fortnight 2026, which runs until 22 May 2026, Northamptonshire Children’s Trust (NCT) – with North Northamptonshire Council and West Northamptonshire Council – is shining a spotlight on the real meaning of fostering through the voices of those who know it best – local foster carers.

Under this year’s national theme, ‘This Is Fostering’, NCT will be sharing powerful real‑life stories from foster carers across Northamptonshire throughout the fortnight. 

These stories will explore what fostering means to them, from providing stability and care during a child’s most difficult moments, to celebrating everyday achievements and building lasting relationships.

The campaign aims to deepen understanding of fostering within the wider community, challenge misconceptions, and encourage more people to consider becoming foster carers.

Celebrating the impact of foster carers

Foster carers play a vital role in the lives of children and young people, offering safe, nurturing homes and consistent support during times of change and uncertainty.

Foster Care Fortnight is an opportunity to recognise the incredible difference our foster carers make every single day. Their compassion, resilience and dedication help shape brighter futures for children and young people across Northamptonshire. Through the ‘This Is Fostering’ campaign, we not only celebrate their stories, but also invite our communities and local businesses to stand alongside them, whether by considering fostering themselves or by offering practical support through initiatives like the Fostering Friendly Pledge.Cllr Elizabeth Wright, Executive Member for Children, Education and Families at North Northamptonshire Council

Foster carers play an extraordinary role in the lives of children and young people. Through Foster Care Fortnight, we want to celebrate their commitment, share their stories, and encourage our local community to support them in meaningful ways.Colin Foster, Chief Executive of Northamptonshire Children’s Trust

Fostering means being there when it matters most. It’s challenging, but it’s also incredibly rewarding.Emma, sharing her experience of fostering.

Supporting foster carers across the community

As part of this year’s Foster Care Fortnight, NCT is also launching the Fostering Friendly Pledge, a new initiative inviting local businesses to show tangible support for foster carers.

By signing the pledge, businesses can offer benefits such as discounts, wellbeing support, flexible services or community offers, helping to recognise and value foster carers for the essential role they play.

Want to get involved or find out more about fostering?

Businesses interested in supporting foster carers can learn more about the Fostering Friendly Pledge and register to attend the launch event on 10 June 2026.

Prospective foster carers are warmly invited to attend a Fostering Information Evening on 20 May 2026 at The Old Savoy Theatre, Northampton, where staff and experienced carers will be available to answer questions about the fostering process and the support available.

For more information about Foster Care Fortnight, the Fostering Friendly Pledge, or becoming a foster carer, visit www.fosterme.co.uk