Celebrating the Success of The Fostering Network’s Pioneers Programme
Celebrating the Success of The Fostering Network’s Pioneers Programme
At H2t, we’re incredibly proud to have partnered with The Fostering Network to enhance services that support foster carers and the lives of children in care. Our collaboration, particularly in Wales, has centred on vital projects that are helping to ensure foster carers feel supported, empowered, and equipped to continue their life-changing work.
A highlight of our work has been the evaluation and development of The Fostering Network’s Fostering Wellbeing Pioneers Programme. This innovative programme, which champions foster carers as 'Pioneers', provides crucial resources to improve their wellbeing, retain their invaluable experience, and, ultimately, support looked-after children.
To strengthen communication and engagement among Pioneers across Wales, we also introduced ConnectMi, a new digital tool that is helping to connect a community of foster carers and enable them to support and mentor one another. Additionally, the launch of the Pioneers Handbook—a practical resource designed specifically for foster carers—was a huge milestone. Seeing the positive reception from fostering teams and carers themselves has been incredibly rewarding. The Fostering Network’s introduction of new training videos, created by young people, added another powerful layer to these resources, ensuring foster carers have the tools they need to succeed.
The need to support foster carers in the UK cannot be overstated. Research shows that foster carers often feel isolated or unsupported, leading many to leave the profession. The Pioneer Programme is essential in addressing these challenges, ensuring foster carers have the networks, training, and resources they need to continue providing safe, nurturing environments for children in care.
Our team at H2t is honoured to contribute to this critical work. We do it because we see the real difference it makes—not just in the lives of carers but in the futures of young people who deserve stability, support, and care.
