In a bid to inspire residents to consider looking after children, the Tameside Council fostering team attended Hyde parkrun.
They were joined at the event’s second birthday on Saturday morning by over 250 additional runners who were taking part.
The team manned a stall where they helped to spread the message that fostering can transform lives; a couple of members also took part in the run.
Individuals or families who foster for Tameside Council will receive full training, support and an allowance. There’s a variety of opportunities for carers which range from emergency and respite care to long-term placements. These can be fitted around work and other commitments.
Cllr Oliver Ryan, Tameside Council Executive Member for Children’s Services, said: “We’re delighted to be continuing this great partnership with Hyde parkrun, especially on a special day for the event.
“Stable and loving foster homes are the best place for the majority of children in our care and our fantastic fostering team play a vital role in this. They make sure we have well trained and supported fosters carers who would be a good fit with our children and young people.
“No matter your age or background, if you can provide a caring and supportive home for a child or young person we want to hear from you. It would transform their life.”
Tameside foster carer Phil Allen also came along to support the initiative and take part in the race with the other runners.
He said: “Becoming a foster carer is one of the best decisions my partner and me have ever made. We’ve received some great support and encouragement from the team along the way and love every minute with the children in our care.”
Hyde parkrun is free and held every Saturday morning at 9am in Hyde Park. The timed 5k event is open to all no matter the age and ability and is organised entirely by volunteers. More information is available on their website www.parkrun.org.uk/hyde.
For more information on fostering and to find out how you could support and child or young person please call 0161 368 8865 or visit www.tameside.gov.uk/fostering.
