Devon County Council’s Fostering Devon team is completing an ambitious 810‑mile challenge this month to shine a spotlight on the urgent need for more foster carers and to raise funds to support children in care.
Ten members of staff from the Promoting Stability Team (PST) have been walking, running and cycling the equivalent distance from Devon to the Scottish Highlands throughout March. Their final miles will be completed together on Tuesday 31 March, when they arrive at Princesshay in Exeter at 10am, marking the end of the challenge.
The challenge distance was chosen deliberately. There are currently 810 children and young people in care in Devon who need stable and loving homes, and each mile represents one child, recognising their individual journeys and the importance of safe and nurturing relationships in helping them thrive.
Councillor Richard Jefferies, Devon County Council’s Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, said:
“The Government announced last month that it wants to recruit 10,000 more foster carers nationally, and that shows just how urgent this issue is.
“This challenge is a powerful reminder that behind every statistic is a child who deserves stability, understanding and a place to belong. The team have done a wonderful job of recognising those children and the journeys they are on, while also raising funds that will directly support vulnerable young people right here in Devon.
“We need more local people to step forward so children can grow up in safe, caring homes close to their communities, so if you’re thinking about it, please get in touch.”
Alongside raising awareness, the team has also already raised over £2,500 and is aiming to reach £4,050, which will be match‑funded by the children’s charity Home for Good. This would take the total to £8,100, which is the equivalent of £10 for every child currently in care in Devon.
Home for Good works to raise awareness of the needs of children in care and to inspire and support people to explore fostering, adoption and supported lodgings. All funds raised will be donated to the charity, with every pound ring‑fenced to support children and young people in Devon.
The Promoting Stability Team is also marking a significant milestone this year. They’ve been supporting children, young people, carers and families across Devon together for ten years. The challenge reflects the team’s long‑standing commitment to trauma‑informed care and to supporting foster carers to help children experience greater consistency and security in their lives.
Amanda Barrett, Teresa Coventry, Rachael Cottrell, Katie Gilks, Craig Harris, Scott Jose, Brigitte Stephenson, Lindsey Stimpson, Tracey Tipton and Lindsey Wright make up the team behind the challenge.
Scott Jose, Therapeutic Fostering Practitioner from the Promoting Stability Team said:
“Every mile matters, because every child matters.
“This challenge is about recognising the journeys of the children we support, recognising their strength and showing our ongoing commitment to supporting the carers and families who help provide safe, stable homes.
“With the right support, fostering can change lives, including your own.”
You can follow the team’s progress on the Fostering Devon Facebook page, support the fundraiser via JustGiving, and join them in cheering on the final miles in Exeter next week.
Anyone who has ever wondered whether fostering could be right for them is invited to join an upcoming virtual information session. These informal online sessions give people the chance to learn more about fostering in Devon, hear from those with real experience, and ask questions about the support available. There is no obligation, just an opportunity to find out more.
Upcoming virtual information sessions:
- Wednesday 8 April from 1pm to 2pm
- Wednesday 8 April from 7pm to 8:30pm
- Wednesday 29 April from 1pm to 2pm
- Wednesday 29 April from 7pm to 8:30pm
Whether someone is just starting to think about fostering or has been quietly considering it for some time, these sessions offer a welcoming and supportive introduction.
Find out more about fostering in Devon on our Fostering Devon website.