Watch as Peterborough City Council appeals for more foster carers

The release is aimed at encouraging local residents to consider fostering local children and young people.

Called Create Memories this Christmas, it follows a couple through the festive season who had lost the joy and warmth of Christmas, and how they rediscovering the true spirit of the season and the deeper sense of purpose, after welcoming a young person into their home.

The council hopes the film will inspire more residents to consider fostering, even if they’ve never thought it might be for them.

Councillor Katy Cole, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services at Peterborough City Council, said: “Christmas is a moment to reflect on what truly matters. For children in care, the greatest gift is not material possessions, but the assurance of safety, love and belonging.

"This year’s Christmas campaign shines a spotlight on the everyday moments that make fostering so special, from sharing traditions to creating new ones.”

“We meet people all the time who assumed they wouldn’t be able to foster and the truth is, if you have a spare room, patience, and a big heart, you could make an incredible difference to a child right here in Peterborough.”

The Council offers several types of fostering to suit different lifestyles, including short-term fostering, which offers stability while plans are made for a child’s future, long-term fostering to provide a permanent, loving home until adulthood, emergency fostering which is opening your door to a child who needs a safe place at very short notice, respite care and supported lodgings.

The council provides a comprehensive package of support to ensure carers feel confident and valued, including:

• Generous financial allowances
• Full training and ongoing professional development
• 24/7 support from a dedicated fostering team
• Local support groups and peer networks
• Exclusive discounts and access to local events and activities