Fostering information stall to feature at Stalybridge Street Fest

Residents attending the popular Stalybridge Street Fest will soon have the opportunity to learn more about fostering and how they can support local children and young people.

From April through to October, Tameside Council’s fostering service, alongside local foster carers, will host a ‘Let’s Talk Fostering’ stall inside Stalybridge Victoria Market Hall during each Street Fest event. The festival takes place on the second Friday of every month and draws large crowds from across the borough.

The stall is designed to provide a welcoming and informal space where visitors can ask questions, speak directly with experienced foster carers, and explore the different ways they can make a positive impact on a child’s life.

Fostering is often more flexible than many people realise. It can be tailored to suit a variety of lifestyles, schedules, and home environments. Options include short-term, long-term, specialist, emergency, and respite care, offering a range of opportunities for those considering becoming foster carers.

With many children and young people in Tameside currently in need of safe, stable, and loving homes, the council is encouraging more residents to consider fostering. Full training is provided, including online options to increase accessibility, along with ongoing support and a financial allowance.

To be eligible, prospective foster carers must be aged 21 or over, have a spare room (unless fostering a child under two years old), and be able to provide a safe and caring home environment.

In addition to the Street Fest presence, the fostering team also hosts regular drop-in sessions both in person and online, giving residents further opportunities to find out more.

Councillor Teresa Smith, Tameside Council’s Executive Member for Children’s and Families, said: “Stalybridge Street Fest is a fantastic and vibrant local event, and the perfect place to stop by our ‘Let’s Talk Fostering’ stall while enjoying some great food and drink.

“Our team are always happy to have an informal chat, however long or short you want it to be. There’s no pressure – it’s simply an opportunity to find out more about fostering.

“Fostering can change a child’s life. By opening your heart and home, you too could make a real difference to local lives.”

Residents who are unable to attend but would like more information can call 0300 303 0321, email enquire@fosterforgm.com, or visit www.fosterforgm.com/tameside.