Powerful film highlights the life-changing role of foster carers

A moving new short film is shining a spotlight on the incredible difference foster carers make to children’s lives, and Tameside Council is urging more local residents to step forward and help.

The film, titled The Run, was launched on 9th October at Everyman Cinema in Altrincham as part of a major national campaign involving more than 90 local authority fostering services across the country, including Foster for Greater Manchester.

The Run tells the story of Tom, an 11-year-old boy whose life is filled with chaos and uncertainty. Through powerful imagery, the film contrasts Tom’s need to run, from danger, from a troubled home life, and to school for breakfast club because he’s hungry, with running as a sport.

Despite facing hardship and lacking even a PE kit, Tom discovers he has a talent for running. The film reaches an emotional climax as he competes in an athletics tournament, cheered on by his new foster family.

The campaign highlights how life-changing foster care can be and encourages more people in Tameside to consider fostering children who need safe, stable, and loving homes.

Tameside Council’s Executive Member for Children and Families, Cllr Teresa Smith, said: “The message of this project is very simple, but so important – we need foster carers, and we need foster carers in Tameside.

“This sentiment applies across the country, which is why this project has grown into a national campaign. The Run is a brilliant, emotional film none of us could have produced on our own, which is why this partnership is so important.

“We have an engaging, high-quality film – but the message is loud and clear; there is an urgent need for more foster carers to step forward across the country. Here in Tameside, we need good people to join our Fostering Family and be the real difference.”

Local authority fostering services across the UK are facing increasing pressure as more children require safe and supportive homes.

Tameside Council offers comprehensive training, ongoing guidance, and financial support for foster carers. Each carer is assigned a dedicated social worker and has access to a buddy system, ensuring advice and emotional support are always available from experienced foster carers.

Fostering in Tameside is flexible and can fit around different lifestyles. Opportunities range from emergency and short-term placements to respite and long-term care. The council’s fostering service is entirely not-for-profit, with the welfare of children at its heart.

To become a foster carer, applicants must be aged 21 or over, have a spare room (for children over two years old), and be able to provide a safe and loving environment. People from all walks of life are encouraged to apply.

There are children like Tom across the country who simply need a chance to thrive in a stable, caring home.

Anyone interested in finding out more about fostering in Tameside can call 0300 303 031, email enquire@fosterforgm.com, or visit www.fosterforgm.com/tameside.

You can also watch The Run online here.