On Tuesday 7 December Torbay’s Cared for Community hosted a small celebration to mark the commitment of The Pledge. This corporate promise is made by us and our partners to the Cared for and Care experienced children and young people of Torbay, between the ages of 0-25.

The small celebration took place at The Boathouse in Preston with a festive meal and games, following the latest COVID-19 safety guidelines. Council Leader, Steve Darling; Head of Regulated Services, Becky Thompson and Cllr Judith Mills, Member of the Corporate Parenting Board were also in attendance. As valued members of the Cared for Community, a selection of foster carers also joined in with The Pledge celebration.

This community event followed on from a series of engagement initiatives to launch The Pledge with the Cared for Community including three podcasts with involvement from the Corporate Parenting Board.

The Pledge outlines principles for Torbay Council and partners to follow as a corporate parent such as always acting with honesty and approachability, in addition to tangible commitments like accessibility to dental appointments, educational and healthcare plans.

Cllr Cordelia Law, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, Torbay Council said; “As a corporate parent, we are very aware that our decision making must be based upon the needs of the children and young people in our care. Having open channels of communication allows us to put their needs at the epicentre of our services.

“Not only is it important that children’s voices are heard and acknowledged, but it is also essential that they are acted upon. The Pledge is a valuable tool in building a more child friendly Torbay and we are proud to make this commitment to the children and young people in our care.”

Torbay Children’s Services are still currently looking for a wide range of new foster carers to care for local, vulnerable children who are unable to live with their birth families. Torbay foster carers are financially supported with an allowance to meet the needs of the foster child and receive training and ongoing support from a dedicated fostering Social Worker and an experienced foster carer as a mentor.

This is the perfect time to make a positive life change with child fostering if you are considering a new work/life balance. If you have flexible working hours, a spare room, and a kind heart, you could become Torbay foster carer. If you would like to find out more please get in touch with Torbay Children’s Services on 01803 207845 or email fostering@torbay.gov.uk.