Progress Fostering Service is proud to celebrate Foster Care Fortnight 2025, the UK’s largest campaign to raise the profile of fostering, which runs from 12 to 25 May under the national theme “The Power of Relationships.” The annual initiative, led by charity The Fostering Network, highlights how strong, nurturing connections transform the lives of children and young people in care.
Now in its twenty-fifth year, Progress continues to build those transformative connections across the Midlands and beyond. The organisation provides children and young people with tailored therapeutic services and pathways that foster safety, stability and personal growth, while offering foster carers 24/7 professional guidance, regular training and peer networking so they can meet the complex needs of children with additional or special educational needs. Employees also benefit from Progress’ Fostering Friendly Employer scheme, ensuring that staff who foster—or who are thinking about it—receive workplace flexibility and support.
Throughout the fortnight, Progress will publish stories that celebrate relationships within and beyond our fostering service. The fortnight reinforces Progress’ long-standing commitment to relationships founded on care, trust, respect and progress.
Michelle Earp, Fostering Manager, Progress Fostering Service, said that strong relationships are “the heartbeat of successful fostering,” adding that the service constantly seeks new ways to strengthen those bonds and improve outcomes for children and carers.
Tina Bhardwaj, Head of Children’s Services, Progress: “Our foster carers provide exceptional care for children and young people with a wide range of needs. This includes those with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), young people in mainstream care preparing for independence, early parents, and those transitioning into short-term foster or residential placements. We support children along many different pathways, and we are actively seeking more dedicated foster carers to help nurture and support those who need it most.”
Claire Rogers, Managing Director, Progress, described Progress Fostering Service’s journey as “remarkable,” affirming a steadfast focus on ensuring every child is, and feels valued, heard and empowered to shine.
Bal Dhanoa MBE, CEO, Progress Care Group, added that fostering has been integral to Progress from day one and that many young people it once supported now make positive contributions to their own communities, a testament to the service’s continuing impact.
Progress Fostering Service is an Ofsted-rated “Outstanding” provider. For a quarter of a century, it continues to deliver relationship-led care that empowers young people with additional and special educational needs to thrive.