£3+ million for fostering in Gloucestershire

I’m really pleased to share that the Labour government is investing over £3 million to transform foster care here in Gloucestershire - including right here in Gloucester. This funding will help create a system that puts loving, stable relationships at the centre of fostering, boosts the number of foster carers, and provides specialist support for the teenagers who need it most.

To make this happen, Gloucestershire will be launching the South West Fostering Hub, bringing together new programmes designed to give foster families the tools, training and wrap‑around support they deserve.

Here’s what’s being funded:

Fostering Hub – £700k

Support to recruit, train and retain more foster carers, and to make sure families get help quickly when they need it.

Room Makers – £1 million

A programme helping carers create safe, welcoming spaces for teenagers who may have experienced trauma or instability.

Fostering Innovation – £560k

New approaches to supporting foster families, including specialist training and evidence‑based interventions.

Mockingbird – £1.2 million

A proven model that builds “constellations” of foster families who support each other - reducing placement breakdowns and giving children a stronger sense of community.

This investment will make a real difference for children and young people across Gloucestershire, ensuring they have the stability, care and opportunities every child deserve