Oldham Council launches film to encourage foster care

The film, Everything, is part of a campaign to recruit more foster carers amid a "nationwide shortage".

It aims to show the long-lasting impact that foster care can have on children and the carers.

To highlight just how life changing fostering is, over 100 councils across England have joined together to launch ‘Everything’ (Image: Supplied)

The film shares the journey of foster carer Mike and the two children he cared for, Will and Zara.

Now adults, Will and Zara come together to surprise Mike at his 60th birthday party, reflecting on the memories that shaped their lives.

Old camcorder footage of family moments and Zara's guitar performance at the party show the "lasting bonds" formed through fostering.

Cllr Shaid Mushtaq, cabinet member for children and young people, said: "This film is more than just a story, it’s a wakeup call.

"Everything shows how important foster carers are for the children they help and how fostering can be rewarding for the carers, too.

"It’s a chance to really make a difference in someone’s life and to feel good about what you do.

"We need more foster carers right now, and I hope this film encourages many people to take that next step and join us."

The council is urging residents to consider becoming foster carers, opening the opportunity to anyone over the age of 21.

This includes people who are single, married, retired, or working.

The council promises to support new carers "every step of the way", providing training, support, and financial assistance.

Those interested in fostering can contact the council fostering team, which is now part of Foster for Greater Manchester, on 0300 303 0321.

Further information about becoming a foster carer can also be requested online, with a reminder to mention Oldham Council.

The council hopes this scheme will inspire more people to step forward and help change the lives of children in need.