Foster for East Midlands Councils (FfEMC) is highlighting that the greatest gift a child can receive this festive season is hope and safety. For many children across the region, that gift can come through the warmth, stability, and care of a foster family. Opening a home to a child in need can provide comfort and security when it matters most.
The festive message encourages people to reflect on what truly matters during this time of giving. Every child deserves a happy and healthy childhood, and together, a brighter future can be shaped for every child.
By fostering locally, individuals can make a difference every single day. The Foster for East Midlands Councils recruitment hub, managed by Derby City, Derbyshire, Nottingham City, and Nottinghamshire Councils, helps people make a real and lasting difference in a child’s life. Covering these areas, the hub supports potential foster carers from their first enquiry through to approval, offering full training, clear guidance, and ongoing support.
FfEMC encourages people to rule themselves in, not out. Prospective carers do not need to be perfect, they only need to care. Anyone can foster, regardless of their background or circumstances.
Fostering with FfEMC also helps children remain connected to the people and places they know. The collaboration aims to place local children in local families, allowing them to stay near school, friends, and community, which can make life easier during an already challenging period.
Every foster carer is supported by a strong local network of fellow carers and professionals. Training, meetings, and additional support are available close to the foster care homes. From the beginning, carers become part of one big, professional team, a fostering community and a family working together for the children in their care. Another benefit of fostering with FfEMC is that prospective carers usually wait less time to be matched with a child and children are prioritised for placement with existing carers first.
Councillor Paul Hezelgrave, Lead Cabinet Member for Foster for East Midlands, said:
Fostering is one of the most meaningful gifts a child can receive, bringing hope, safety, and belonging all year, not just during this festive season. Our partnership of local councils supports foster carers every step of the way. If you’ve ever wondered whether you could be a foster carer, count yourself in, not out, and reach out to Foster for East Midlands Councils.
Those interested in fostering can contact Foster for East Midlands Councils by calling 03033 132 950, emailing hello@fosterforeastmidlands.org.uk, or visiting fosterforeastmidlands.org.uk.
Fostering information events can be found on the Foster for East Midlands Councils events web page or see the events for December 2025 and January 2026, book on and come and chat with us about fostering.
Thursday 18 December, 12 noon to 1pm
ONLINE – Join our zoom call
Register
Thursday 8 January, 6.30pm to 7.30pm
ONLINE – Join our zoom call
Register
Tuesday 20 January, 12 noon to 1pm
ONLINE – Join our zoom call
Register
Sunday 25 January, 11am to 3pm
Sherwood Community Centre, Woodthorpe House, Mansfield Rd, Sherwood, Nottingham, NG5 3FN
IN PERSON – drop in any time
Register