The Isle of Wight Council’s fostering service has relaunched under the new name Foster Together following consultation with foster carers, children, young people, partners and other stakeholders.
The Council says the rebrand follows a “You Said, We Listened, We Did” approach, with feedback highlighting the need for a more modern, inclusive and unified identity.
Although the name and visual identity have changed, the authority says its focus remains on finding safe and loving homes for Isle of Wight children.
Foster Together is intended to reflect the role played by foster carers, families, social workers, schools, health professionals and the wider community in supporting children and young people.
The new branding was designed and delivered in-house by the Isle of Wight Council’s Communications and Design Team, with the authority saying there has been no additional cost to the Council or residents.
Kay Jones, Service Director for Children’s Social Care, has said:
“Foster Together perfectly captures what fostering is all about: people coming together to create a caring community around our children and young people.
“This rebrand has been shaped by the voices of foster carers, children, young people and partners, and reflects our shared commitment to helping Island children stay close to home, connected to their communities and surrounded by people who care.
Article continues below this advertisement “Our foster carers provide more than a home; they provide love, stability, belonging and the opportunity for children to thrive.
“Together, we are building a community where every child feels valued, supported and part of a family.”
Councillor Andrew Garratt, Vice Chair of the Children’s Services, Education and Skills Committee, added:
“We are very grateful to our foster carers for the life-changing role they play in our community.
“This new identity brings out that fostering is a collective effort involving many people and organisations.
“It reflects our ambition to continue recruiting and supporting local foster carers so that more Island children can remain close to their families, schools and communities.”
More information about fostering on the Isle of Wight can be found at www.iow.gov.uk/fostering, or by contacting the Foster Together team on 01983 823160.
Can I just say, as an experienced foster carer for over ten years for almost twenty children, it has been a brilliant adventure. If you are thinking of doing it, just give it a try. The kids are great, the money isn’t too bad and the rewards are immense.