Across the East Midlands, many children in care are placed outside their home communities, not because it is in their best interest, but due to a persistent shortage of local foster carers. In 2025, Derby City is supporting 550 children, with 140 fostering households, Derbyshire County Council is supporting 1025 children with 206 fostering households, Nottingham City is supporting 639 children with100 fostering households, while Nottinghamshire County cares for 910 children with 187 households. These figures highlight an ongoing imbalance between the number of children needing care and the local fostering capacity available.

March 2024 saw the establishment of the Foster for East Midlands Councils regional recruitment hub, a collaborative initiative between Nottingham City, Nottinghamshire, Derby City, and Derbyshire councils. Backed by funding from the Department for Education, the hub centralises enquiries, assessments, training, and ongoing support for prospective and approved foster carers. It aims to strengthen local fostering provision so that more children can remain in familiar environments, such as their schools, friendship circles, and communities.

Since its launch, the hub has received 1,774 enquiries, processed 531 initial applications, completed 267 home visits, and received 143 full applications.

Stories of local carers bringing sunshine to a local child.

Angela — Fostering had always been in the back of Angela’s mind, something she’d considered in her twenties but didn’t pursue right away. “It was something I’d wanted to do for a long time,” she shares. “But I waited until I had brought up my own children.”

The turning point came when Angela’s sister began fostering. Inspired by the positive impact her sister was having, especially working with teenagers. Angela decided to take the leap and join her on the journey.

Now, Angela provides contract care through Foster for East Midlands Councils. Currently she’s caring for a young man with a passion for football. “He’s really into the sport,” she says with a smile. “He’s even a referee and a linesman. He loves it.”

Beyond his passion for football, he’s thriving at college, where he’s studying joinery and excelling. “He’s top of the class,” Angela proudly adds.

For Angela, fostering has been a rewarding experience. “You’ve got to be open-minded,” she says. “Come and give it a try, I absolutely love it.”

She’s honest about the realities too. “There are ups and downs, of course, but you’re never alone. There’s a lot of support available, and you just need to use it.”

Her message to others considering fostering is clear, “Give it a go. It’s one of the most fulfilling things you can do.”

John and Carol — When their own children left home, John and Carol knew they had space and love to share. A particularly special moment for them was when a previous foster child called and asked John if he would do her the honour of giving her away at her wedding “That’s when I knew we’d made a real difference,” John says.

Carl — Choosing fostering over parenthood, Carl and his wife focused their lives on giving children a stable and loving home. “Some days are tough, but the rewards far outweigh the struggle. It’s all about helping them reach a positive outcome,” Carl reflects, urging others “Go for it. Even if it’s not right for you, you’ll learn something.”

Nina and Nayan — After 23 years of fostering, this couple continues to light up the lives of children: “You truly make a difference to the children who come into your lives. It’s such a joy watching them grow,” says Nayan. “If you’ve got something to offer, then offer it. Don’t overthink it. Just open your heart and do it for a child that needs it,” Nina adds.

Sharnie and Zak — New foster carers, they welcomed their first placement via respite care. Nervous but hopeful, they were surprised by how quickly the child settled in filled with laughter and calm. “Fostering had always been one of those ‘one day we will’ ideas,” they say. “We chose this because it felt natural to open our home to a child who needs a safe, stable place and to enrich our daughter’s life too.” They also emphasise the support they’ve received: “You’re never alone on this journey,” reflecting fondly on the hub’s training, resources, and network of caring professionals.

Cllr Paul Hezelgrave, Lead Council’s Cabinet Member for Fostering for East Midlands Councils said;

Every child deserves to grow up surrounded by love, stability, and a sense of belonging. By fostering, you’re not just opening your home you’re opening the door to brighter opportunities, happier memories, and a future filled with hope. We need more people than ever to step forward and be that sunshine in a child’s life.

Foster for East Midlands Councils offers a wide variety of placements from short to long-term, emergency care, parent-and-child arrangements, to specialist support for children with additional needs. No formal qualifications are required just time, space, and a generous heart. Every carer receives comprehensive training, financial support, and ongoing professional guidance, ensuring you’re supported every step of the way. By choosing to foster, you truly bring sunshine into a child’s life helping them grow surrounded by warmth, safety, and belonging.

If you’re ready to start your fostering journey, visit fosterforeastmidlands.org.uk, call 03033 132 950, or email hello@fosterforeastmidlands.org.uk. You can also join one of their monthly information events to learn more about meet our foster carers in your community.

Watch the short film where Angela talks about her fostering journey.