Colchester City Council is proud to announce it has officially become a Fostering Friendly employer, joining a growing number of organisations across the UK supporting foster carers in the workplace. This new policy will go live this week and forms part of the council’s commitment to supporting vulnerable children and strengthening local families.
As a Fostering Friendly employer, Colchester City Council now offers flexible working arrangements for employees who foster or are in the process of becoming approved foster carers. Staff can also access up to nine additional days of paid leave to attend vital fostering responsibilities such as training, meetings with social workers, and settling children into their homes.
Pam Donnelly, Chief Executive of Colchester City Council, said: “Foster carers change lives, but they can't do it alone. We recognise the dedication it takes to provide a safe and nurturing home for a child, and we’re committed to supporting our employees who take on this vital role. This new policy is designed to ease the practical pressures foster carers often face – giving them the flexibility and time they need to balance their work and fostering responsibilities. By creating a more supportive environment, we hope to not only assist current foster carers but also encourage others to consider fostering.”
The announcement comes amid a deepening national crisis in foster care. According to a recent BBC report, councils across the UK are struggling to find enough foster carers, with more than 7,200 additional fostering households needed to meet demand. Essex is no exception, with hundreds of children in need of a safe, stable home.
Mervyn Erskine, Executive Chair of The Fostering Network, commented: “Becoming a Fostering Friendly employer is something to be really proud of. Foster carers are the bedrock of children’s social care – for the difference they make to the lives of children. It is important that this vital role is not only recognised but also encouraged by their employers.”
The Fostering Friendly initiative, led by The Fostering Network, provides a free, accessible way for organisations to support foster carers and raise awareness about the urgent need for more foster homes. Colchester’s participation adds momentum to this national effort.
Fostering is open to people from all backgrounds, regardless of age, gender, or relationship status. Those interested in fostering can learn more by contacting Essex County Council’s fostering service or visiting thefosteringnetwork.org.uk.
Page last reviewed: 5 June 2025