Fostering - The Power of Relationships

I was lying awake in the early hours of June 2nd, 2024 thinking about our choir - a small group of Wakefield foster carers who had come together just months before to sing for fun. Even back then, I sensed we were building something special.

On a whim, I messaged Fatima Whitbread. She is someone I have admired for a long time. I wanted to share our story with her, but I never expected a reply. Moments later, one came. She praised our work and invited us to perform at her UK Campaign Summit at the Guildhall in London, April 2025. It was a surreal and exciting moment for us all.

Fatima is an inspiring force. She is kind, resilient, and a fierce advocate for children in care. Her life story resonates deeply with our choir’s purpose. We promote unity, support, and change through small, meaningful actions.

When I shared the news with the choir, there was an immediate buzz. But with that also came nerves! Could 14 foster carers really perform to many people on such a big stage?

At our next rehearsal, I handed out sparkly “BIG GIRL PANTS” badges to lighten the mood and remind us that if our foster children can bravely face new homes and challenges, we could surely face an audience. We made a pact: we would put on our big girl pants, and sing for the children!

One of our choir members, Kirstie, helped locate a coach for us. With our new coach , our practices became more focused, our voices stronger, and we even introduced harmonies.  Dare I say, we started to sound good! We took on small performances at fostering events to boost confidence. Over time, we became more than just a choir - we became a true support network.

2024 flew by and soon enough, the summit arrived! We travelled to London buzzing with nerves and anticipation. When we arrived at the Guildhall, Fatima greeted us with warmth and encouragement. We were given a space to rehearse, and over two days, we sang our hearts out during the lunchtime sessions.

The summit itself was incredibly moving. We attended breakout sessions led by charities, care-experienced professionals, and advocates who shared powerful stories and ideas for improving children’s lives. I was asked to join panel along with Joy, another carer. We were both honoured to speak on a panel, representing our choir and Wakefield’s fostering community.

The message was clear: small actions can create real change. Fatima’s focus on collaboration and compassion resonated deeply. We left the summit inspired and grateful.

Our choir is made up of Michelle, Joy, Lucy, Elizabeth, Jackie, Diane, Helen, Sarah, Anita, Angela, Sally, Veronica, Julie, and Kirstie. Together we have collectively fostered over 300 children. We came together as strangers but now we are a support network.

With Fatima’s encouragement, we’ll keep singing! We will sing for our children, for the fostering community, and for change. We’re proof that even a small group of foster carers can make a big impact.

For anybody who is interested in becoming a foster carer, visit www.wakefield.gov.uk/fostering or call 0800 197 0320.