Stoke-on-Trent City Council fostering service and its foster carers are set to run this year’s Hanley Economic Potters ’Arf Marathon next weekend (Sunday, September 26).
Members of the city council’s fostering team, its foster carers, and the cabinet member for children and young people, Councillor Dave Evans will be entering a relay team. Further foster carers and members of the fostering team will also be running and walking the hugely popular 13.1-mile half marathon.
Councillor Dave Evans, cabinet member for children and young people said: “It is fantastic to see how dedicated our foster carers and staff are about promoting fostering. This summer our fostering team have been out and about at some of the city’s most popular events spreading the word about fostering. The Potter’s Arf is the perfect opportunity for us to show our commitment to supporting vulnerable children and use the well-attended event to encourage potential foster carers to learn more.”
Foster carers Steve and Ange Nixon who are taking part in the Potters ‘Arf said: “We have just completed our first year as foster carers. We have found fostering very rewarding and inspiring, watching the children grow and learn has been amazing. We would strongly encourage others to think about fostering; our lives are much more fulfilled.”
There is a huge need for more foster carers in Stoke-on-Trent with 1000 cared for children currently in the city.
The city council also has a high need for therapeutic foster carers- those who can care for children with complex needs and challenging behaviour. Therapeutic foster care allows the opportunity for children and young people to be able to develop and grow through extra assistance, while being cared for in a secure home.
Councillor Dave Evans, cabinet member for children and young people continues: “There really is no typical foster carer. Anyone can come forward and make such a big difference in a child’s life regardless of age, gender, religious or cultural background, sexual orientation or if you are married, single or divorced. Our friendly team will be more than happy to talk you through the process step-by-step.”
If you would like to know more about becoming a foster carer in Stoke-on-Trent then why not start your fostering journey by visiting www.stoke.gov.uk/fostering or calling 01782 234555.
The Hanley Economic Potters ’Arf Marathon will take place on Sunday, September 26. More information about the Potters ’Arf - including entry details, the latest news, race day information, and results - is available at https://www.stoke.gov.uk/pottersarf
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