Wiltshire Council is urging local residents to make 2026 the year they transform a young person’s life by becoming a foster carer.
As many families set resolutions for the year ahead, Wiltshire is asking people to consider a goal with life-changing impact – offering a safe and loving home to a child who cannot live with their birth family.
The county needs more foster carers to support children and teenagers close to where they grew up, helping them stay connected with their school, friends, clubs and wider family networks.
Fostering with Wiltshire Council offers flexibility, full training and round-the-clock support. Weekly payments range from £410 to £760 per child, ensuring carers are financially supported while providing care that truly matters.
But current carers say the biggest reward is emotional, not financial.
Kevin and Louise (pictured above) will mark one year of fostering in March.
“It’s been brilliant,” Kevin said. “Really rewarding seeing them grow. We’ve been really lucky and had children who just want to be loved.”
For those considering it, his advice is simple.
“It’s so rewarding,” he added. “Just seeing them smile. You can make a difference in their lives. It’s just knowing you’ve kept them safe, happy, fit and healthy.”
Wiltshire Council is hosting a series of drop-in fostering information events across the county throughout January, alongside an online session for those who prefer to join from home.
Fostering events – January 2026
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Friday 9 January, 2–5pm – Melksham Community Campus
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Tuesday 13 January, 12–4pm – Five Rivers Community Campus
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Friday 16 January, 10am–2pm – Devizes Library
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Wednesday 21 January, 2–5pm – Calne Community Campus
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Saturday 24 January, 4–5pm – Online session
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Wednesday 28 January, 10.30am–2pm – Marlborough Library
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Friday 30 January, 2–5pm – Trowbridge Leisure Centre
Cllr Jon Hubbard, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, said, “We’re all making our new year’s resolutions, and the start of a new year is the perfect moment to take on a challenge that truly matters. Fostering isn’t just a career – it’s a calling. Every child deserves a safe and supportive home, and you could be the person who makes that happen.”
Wiltshire Council offers comprehensive training, practical guidance and a dedicated fostering team. People can foster whether single, married, working, or retired – all that’s needed is a spare bedroom, time to care and a commitment to helping a child flourish.
More information on fostering with your local council can be found at www.fosterwithyourlocalcouncil.org.uk, by calling 0300 456 0120, or emailing email hidden; JavaScript is required.
