New fostering scheme helps families beat isolation

A new fostering programme in Peterborough is said to be helping carers and children feel more connected through its supportive "extended family" network.

Bob and Kay, who have been foster carers for six years, recently became "hub carers" as part of the city's Mockingbird programme.

The model brings foster families together into small support groups. Since November, the couple's group has grown to include nine foster families and 18 children, ranging from babies to teenagers.

Kay, 70, said: "It's like a family - we step in as extended family may do. Whether it's covering a school drop-off or lending an ear to help solve a problem, we're there for the children and the carers."

At the centre of each group is a specially trained hub home carer, who provides emotional and practical support for families and the children.

The couple, who have been together for 30 years, also organise coffee mornings and social events, helping families build friendships and feel less isolated.

Kay said: "We're there to support carers and children. That can mean sleepovers, play dates, trips to the zoo, water fights in the garden, or simply sharing hot chocolates together.

"It's a support network - how care should be - wrapped around the child, with them at the centre."

Families are matched based on children's ages and experiences, helping young people form friendships with others who understand life in care.

"Socialising with other children in care helps them realise they are not alone in their experience of not living with their own family," she said.

She added that fostering had also had a positive impact on her own family life.

"Fostering has been overwhelmingly positive for us. It's made me a better parent overall because it's encouraged me to think more intentionally about parenting," Kay said.

Katy Cole, Labour cabinet member for children's services at Peterborough City Council, said the new programme was "empowering families to support each other and overcome problems before they escalate or lead to breakdowns".

The council is continuing to recruit foster carers across the city and encourages anyone who feels they could offer a safe, loving home – with the support of a local network - to get in touch.

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