Bracknell

Bracknell Foster children and their families had an evening of Christmas cheer yesterday (Tuesday 18) thanks to Bracknell Forest Borough Council and Waitrose.

Every year the Bracknell Council's Family Placement Team, which arranges foster care and adoption in the borough, organises the party for children who have been fostered and their foster families.

This year over 20 families joined in the fun at a brilliant party which was made successful thanks to Waitrose's generous donation of toys for children in care.

The party was held at the Rowan's Children's Centre in Pondmoor Road, Bracknell.

Santa dropped in at the party and wished all the children a very merry Christmas. He delivered the presents, details of which remain under wraps but they incude an array of toys and games.

Various companies throughout the borough also donated prizes for the prize draw at the end of evening.

Tony Eccleston, Bracknell Director of Education, Children's Services and Libraries said: "The generous support from Waitrose as always makes a teriffic difference to children in care.

"Being able to celebrate in a family setting like this can help children get closer to their foster families and gives them the opportunity to be just like other children at this time of year."

Cllr Dr Gareth Barnard, Executive Member of Children’s Services, said: "Foster families do a tremendous amount of work for the children they look after.

"This party is a way of saying a small thank you to them as well as helping the children enjoy a little extra for Christmas.

"The foster carer Christmas party is always special and I'd like to say thank you to Waitrose for their generous support which is sure to make the party even more memorable."

Some 800 foster carers are currently needed in the south east. Anyone can apply to be a foster carer and the Family Placement Team offers flexible fostering options to suit you, your family and your lifestyle.

A fostering and adoption evening will be held on Monday 21 January at the Bracknell Family Centre, Warfield Road. For more information contact the Family Placement Team on: 01344 351582 or complete an no-commitment online expression of interest form at www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/fostering

Bracknell Forest Borough Council