Tom’s race with new foster carers

Foster carers who help our children reach for the stars. That is the message of an inspiring new fostering film from over 90 local authority fostering services, of which North Lincolnshire Council are proud to be a part of. 

‘The Run’, has launched today – Thursday 9 October and is the eighth fostering awareness film produced by award-winning producers ReelTwentyFive, and part of the ever growing partnership of councils and children’s trusts to promote local authority fostering.  

The film focuses on Tom, an 11-year-old boy, contrasting his need to run – away from danger, a chaotic home life, to get to school in time for breakfast club, because he’s hungry – with running as a sport.  

Despite the disadvantages Tom faces before being fostered – not even having PE kit for school – he’s good at running and the film climaxes with Tom taking part in an athletics tournament, running in a stadium, with the support of his new foster family.    

It’s Tom’s chance to shine.  Can Tom win his race?  On the track and in his life?    

That message is at the core of the film project.  

Cllr Julie Reed, cabinet member for children, families and communities, said: “In North Lincolnshire, our children are at the heart of everything we do. We are committed to ensuring they have the stability, love and opportunities they need to thrive and fostering plays a vital role in making this possible.  

“We are immensely proud of the dedication, compassion and resilience shown by our foster carers, who open their homes and hearts to children who need them most. This new film shines a light on the difference they make every single day; providing not only safety and care, but also the encouragement and belief that helps our children grow with confidence.  

“Whether experienced carers or those just beginning their fostering journey, every foster family in North Lincolnshire is a champion for our children. They give them the chance to stay connected with their schools, friends and communities, while building bonds that can last a lifetime.  

“We value our foster carers and support them practically, emotionally and financially with council tax exemption, generous weekly allowances, swimming discount at NL Active leisure centres, Max card discount on days out for the family, a comprehensive training package and much more. 

“This film is a celebration of the life-changing power of fostering and of the extraordinary people who help our children reach their full potential.”  

One of our North Lincolnshire foster carers, said: “It’s not a job, it’s not a hobby. It’s everything and that’s why we do it.”  

Another said this: “Our first foster child was 18 years ago; we still support him and spend time with him. He was 20 months old when he came to us, he is now 19 this year. The reason we wanted to foster was to give a child the chance to be in a stable home and be loved unconditionally.” 

Local authority fostering services are under pressure like never before as more children need a safe, stable home. This is combined with increased competition from independent fostering agencies to recruit foster carers.  

The film’s project director Rachel Brown explains: “This whole project grew out of the constant struggle to recruit foster carers, when you have limited resources.  By working as a group – which has grown from 12 to over 90 councils across the country – we’ve found a way to raise our voice and shout.  

“‘The Run’ won’t change things on its own, but we hope that everyone who sees it, will at least pause for thought, hopefully stepping forward to help our most vulnerable children and young people.”   

One thing is for sure, there are children like Tom all over the country. Here in North Lincolnshire, this is no exception.   

The North Lincolnshire Council version of the film is available to watch on YouTube and people can find out more about fostering in North Lincolnshire on our website, by emailing fostering@northlincs.gov.uk or calling 01724 297024.