As we enter autumn, you may have some goals to work towards during the final few months of 2025, including the decision to take positive steps towards helping vulnerable children — so if you're looking for guidance to start your fostering journey, join Gloucestershire County Council’s latest in-person information session.
Taking place on Sunday 5 October 2025 from 10am to 4pm, Forest Showcase Food Festival is back at The Speech House Hotel for a celebration of the rich gastronomic heritage of the area, featuring exciting displays, live music and talks and tastings — with the GCC Fostering team available all day to chat to anyone interested in fostering.
Around 760 children of all ages are currently in care in Gloucestershire – and finding local foster carers is essential to ensure that youngsters can stay at the schools of their choice and close to friends and family.
To enlighten potential foster carers about the road ahead, the pop-up offers information on the various types of foster care, eligibility criteria, the process of becoming a foster carer, personal stories of fostering, as well as the support available, including foster care pay.
While participants are under no obligation to take the next steps until they are ready to, this pop-up is an ideal opportunity to find out more about fostering with your local council.
Fostering is open to anyone over 21 regardless of race, religion or sexuality; whether single or in a relationship; in employment or otherwise; and whether they rent or own their home.
For more information, visit gloucestershire.gov.uk/fostering or email fostering@gloucestershire.gov.uk.
