Basingstoke ObserverMAY 2022 marked a year since the launch of the Hampshire Hive - a support network of local groups which effectively create an ‘extended family’ for foster carers and looked after children in communities across Hampshire.
To recognise the success of the pilot, 120 foster carers, children and young people came together on Saturday 28 May for ‘Hive Fest’, a celebratory afternoon of fun, food and games.
Councillor Roz Chadd, Hampshire County Council’s Deputy Leader and Executive Lead Member for Children’s Services, went along to join in the celebrations and meet carers and their families. She said: “It’s so important that there is a strong support network in place for our foster carers. Fostering can be challenging, and we understand just how invaluable peer-to-peer support can be. This event gave foster carers and their families the opportunity to come together to relax and have fun while celebrating the Hampshire Hive and each other. Our foster carers do incredible work and the sense of community at Hive Fest was palpable. We are always in need of more people to foster so I’d encourage those interested or considering fostering to get in touch as soon as possible.”
Since launching, the pilot has grown to include 12 Hives, including Basingstoke, each represented at Hive Fest.
Hampshire residents who would like to find out more about fostering with the County Council should visit hants.gov.uk/fostering where they will find a wealth of resources, information and online events designed to answer their queries.
