FOSTival 2025
Challenging misconceptions, learning about public perceptions, engaging with the local community...having fun!
evolve Therapeutic Fostering has been receiving over 90 referrals for children and young people daily throughout quarter two of 2025, a 50% increase compared to 2024.
As we unfortunately know, whilst the rate of children being entered into care is dramatically rising, the number of foster parents is sharply falling. Something drastic and innovative needs to happen within the social care sector so we do not fail our children and young people.
That is why the team at evolve Therapeutic Children’s Services launched FOSTival.
Taking place in Kent in June 2025, FOSTival was born out of a desire to reach, connect and educate as many people as possible about fostering. Whether that be to challenge misconceptions, learn about public perceptions or just engage the local community.
At evolve we really do believe in the importance of community. That’s why we also wanted to create something meaningful and long-lasting.
FOSTival is a child-focussed, community-led initiative that creates a lasting and enjoyable day for all families. With no entry charge, and all activities completely free, FOSTival allows every child to play, explore their passions, enjoy the outdoors and HAVE FUN!
FOSTival 2025 was a roaring success with over 1000 attendees. Each interaction brought real, open conversation that spread a light on the reality of fostering in 2025 and how it has changed considerably over the years.
100% of people said they believed FOSTival has a positive effect on the local community, with 95% of people saying they would attend future events.
More importantly, nearly 90% of people knew the reasons behind the creation of FOSTival, with 62% saying the event gave them an opportunity to learn more about fostering.
We also had multiple comments saying FOSTival really fostered a sense of community, and the event saw us raise £500 for our charity partners, The Young Lives Foundation.
FOSTival 2025 was just the beginning. We’ll use our findings to converse more, educate further and lead service developments to ensure we are providing and implementing real, lasting change.
FOSTival 2026, we’re ready and we can’t wait.
