Local businesses across Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire are being invited to play a vital role in shaping a brighter future for children and young people by supporting, a new regional fostering initiative.

Foster for East Midlands Councils is a collaboration between Derby City, Derbyshire County, Nottingham City and Nottinghamshire County Councils. Launched in March 2024, it brings the four councils together for the first time to increase the number of local authority foster carers and strengthen support for those already fostering.

As part of the campaign to engage the wider community, businesses are being encouraged to get involved by attending upcoming Business Breakfast Events. These informal networking sessions are designed to introduce organisations to fostering, offer insights from experienced foster carers, and provide practical steps for how businesses can help. 

Events are taking place on Thursday 19 June, 7.45am to 10am at Pride Park Stadium in Derby, and Wednesday 25 June, 7.45am to 10am at Notts County Football Club in Nottingham. Breakfast is complimentary and spaces are limited, so early booking is recommended. Visit the Foster for East Midlands Councils business support web page to book and find out more.  

There are many additional ways businesses can support fostering in the community. This includes displaying posters or materials, sharing information on social media, including fostering updates in staff newsletters or intranet pages, hosting information events, offering promotional space or perks for foster families, and sponsoring local fostering initiatives. 

Businesses are also being invited to become fostering friendly employers by joining The Fostering Network’s recognised scheme. The scheme provides employers with the tools and guidance needed to support staff who foster and demonstrates a commitment to social responsibility. Foster for East Midlands Councils offers one-to-one guidance, sample policies, and ongoing support to help businesses adapt and submit their policy to the Fostering Network for approval. Once recognised, businesses can be celebrated publicly as Fostering Friendly.

Foster for East Midlands Councils stresses that the involvement of the local business community is essential in building awareness, encouraging potential carers, and reinforcing a culture of support for children who need it most.

Any business interested in supporting fostering or attending an event can call 03033 132 950 or visit the how your business can support fostering web page to book onto the events or make a general enquiry. The team welcomes all forms of partnership and is ready to help businesses find the right way to contribute.