Wolverhampton celebrates Kinship Care with heartfelt event

The Fostering for Wolverhampton team hosted a special tea party yesterday (Wednesday 8 October) to mark Kinship Care Week 2025 and honour the incredible role kinship foster parents play in the lives of children across the city.

Kinship foster parents are family members or close friends provide love, stability, and a nurturing home to children within their own family network; they are the unsung heroes of many families.

Their dedication ensures children can remain within familiar surroundings, offering unwavering support, guidance and preserving vital family connections and cultural identity.

Families enjoyed a creative scrapbook-making activity, offering a chance to reflect on and capture their most cherished memories. The event was filled with heartwarming moments as families shared stories of resilience, love, and the unique bonds they share with the children in their care.

Councillor Jacqui Coogan, the City of Wolverhampton Council’s Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Education, said: “Kinship foster parents often step in during times of crisis, offering stability and love when it’s needed most. Their contribution to the wellbeing of children in Wolverhampton is immeasurable, and it’s vital we continue to recognise and support them.

“The tea party served as both a celebration and a reminder of the essential role kinship foster parents play in shaping the future of young people in Wolverhampton. Events like this aim to recognise and support these incredible families, ensuring they feel appreciated and valued for their contributions.”

Alison Hinds, the City of Wolverhampton Council’s Director of Children’s Services, added: “Kinship foster parents are the heart of our community. Their selflessness and commitment to providing a safe and loving environment for children is truly inspiring. We are incredibly thankful for all they do.”

For more information about kinship care and how to support local families, please contact the Fostering for Wolverhampton team via fostering@wolverhampton.gov.uk or visit www.fosteringforwolverhampton.com or follow @fosteringforwolves on social media.

Councillor Jacqui Coogan, the City of Wolverhampton Council’s Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Education, with some of Wolverhampton’s kinship foster parents.