Fostering is one of the best things we’ve ever done - it’s so rewarding
Blackpool Council will mark Foster Care Fortnight by celebrating the town’s foster carers with special events, discounted attractions and the illumination of Blackpool Tower.
Blackpool Council is set to celebrate the town’s foster carers during Foster Care Fortnight as it highlights the growing need for more local families to provide homes for children in care.
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The national campaign, which runs from May 11 to May 24, aims to raise awareness of the difference foster carers make to children and young people’s lives.
In Blackpool, celebrations will include lighting up Blackpool Tower, family events in Stanley Park and activities at North Family Hub and the Salvation Army.
The council is also offering foster carers raffle prizes including tickets to Blackpool attractions, while Blackpool Tourism Limited has provided half-price entry to attractions during the fortnight.
Among those being recognised are Alison and Gary Armitage, who have fostered with the council since 2021 and currently care for a 17-year-old.
The couple specialise in supporting teenagers as they prepare for adulthood and independent living.
Alison said: “Fostering is one of the best things we’ve ever done. It’s about the difference you can make. When you see how they change - sometimes when they arrive, they have a lot of problems they are working through but once they realise you have their best interest at heart then it’s easier.
“It’s nice knowing they have got a much better life and that you have made a difference through difficult times. It makes you feel like you’ve contributed and that you are helping people in society.”
Blackpool currently has around 544 children and young people in care with some still waiting for foster placements.
Council leaders say a shortage of local carers means some children are placed outside the area, away from schools, friends and family networks.
Councillor Jim Hobson, said: “Foster carers like Alison and Gary are the unsung heroes of our communities in Blackpool. Their patience and dedication in preparing young people for the big, wide world is remarkable.
“We’d like to thank Alison and Gary, and all our foster carers for the impact they make on the lives of children and young people in our care.
“Whilst we appreciate our foster carers, we do need more people to consider fostering for Blackpool so if you’ve thought about it in the past, we can help you to make it a reality.”
To find out more about fostering, visit www.blackpool.gov.uk/fostering or call 01253 420222.