“Any of us can foster”…. that’s the message of a powerful new short film produced by councils across the UK including three Merseyside Local Authorities.
Knowsley, Liverpool, Sefton and have joined 80 other council fostering services to get behind ‘Any of us’, a film which raises awareness of fostering. It highlights that we all have the potential to make a difference to a child’s life.
‘Any of us’ – the Story
‘Any of us’, looks at three very different people, Ayesha, Neil and Marsha, who each show in their own way, how they have nurturing personalities, from going to the aid of a pedestrian after an accident, to calming down an aggressive situation.
Separate individuals in very different scenarios but showing a natural caring instinct which is fundamental to being a foster carer.
These stories are all interwoven with that of a young foster child, Chloe, as we get an insight into her journey into fostering.
Three Merseyside councils joining forces
There are more than 2,500 cared for children across the three local authorities and with a national shortage of local carers, authorities have no alternative but to look further afield, meaning some children are moved away from their school, friends, and familiar environment. Experiencing this can be traumatic for a child or young person.
Cllr Margaret Harvey, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services at Knowsley Council, said: “It’s more important than ever that we find homes for our vulnerable children, so we’re delighted to be working together with other local authorities across the UK in funding this film and other similar initiatives so we can have a bigger impact when raising awareness.
“The fostering message is the same wherever you live. If you feel you have love to give and can relate to the nurturing personalities portrayed in this film then please get in touch with your local council’s Fostering Service.
“Fostering directly with your council means you can support your local community by working a with a fostering service that is dedicated to supporting local children and young people who need a nurturing, safe foster home.”
Local launch event
The Any of Us film was premiered locally at an event hosted by Knowsley, Liverpool and Sefton fostering services at FACT cinema in Liverpool this week.
Local businesses, organisations, media and community groups were invited to hear real-life experiences from foster carers to understand that they are everyday people and as foster carers they’re being nothing but themselves as loving individuals.
Cllr Harvey continued: “We often hear the expression ‘It takes a village to raise a child’ and communities, businesses and organisations can help in many ways. For example, by sharing messages about fostering, by making workplaces ‘Fostering Friendly’ so it’s easier to work and foster at the same time, or even helping current foster families by offering discounts on days out or activities. Our children benefit when we all work together.”
Foster carers make a significant difference in the lives of fostered children and young people, helping them to flourish and achieve their full potential.
If you would like to find out more about Fostering for Knowsley, please visit their website or call 0151 443 3958.