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A coiled rainbow-colored pride wristband sits on a wooden table outdoors during daytime.

Derby Pride fostering stand opens on 12 September

People thinking about fostering will be able to meet the Foster for East Midlands Councils team at Pride events across the region this summer, including Derby Pride at Markeaton Park on Saturday 12 September.

The recruitment and information stand is aimed at members of the public who want an informal first conversation about fostering. Entry fees apply at Chesterfield Pride and Derby Pride. The other listed events are Pride in the Peaks in Matlock and Notts Pride in Nottingham.

Summer Pride dates for first fostering conversations

Foster for East Midlands Councils is taking its recruitment team to four Pride events between June and September, with stands planned in Chesterfield, Matlock, Nottingham and Derby.

Event detail Confirmed information
Chesterfield Pride Saturday 13 June, 1pm to 5pm, Stand Road Park, Chesterfield, S41 7JB. Entry fees apply.
Pride in the Peaks Saturday 27 June, 12pm to 5pm, Hall Leys Park, Matlock, DE4 3SX.
Notts Pride Saturday 25 July, 12pm to 4pm, Sneinton Market, Gedling Street, Nottingham, NG1 1DS.
Derby Pride Saturday 12 September, 12pm to 5pm, Markeaton Park, Derby. Entry fees apply.

The stand is not described as a formal appointment or booking-only session. Derby City Council said members of the public are welcome to visit and speak to the team informally about fostering.

Who the stands are for

The events are for anyone interested in becoming a foster carer, including people who have questions but are not ready to make a formal enquiry.

The Pride Month message from Derby City Council and Foster for East Midlands Councils focuses particularly on LGBTQ+ people who may have ruled themselves out before asking. The source says there is no such thing as a typical foster carer, and that foster carers come from a wide range of backgrounds and life experiences.

Across Derby, Derbyshire, Nottingham and Nottinghamshire, the councils say more foster carers are needed so children can remain close to their schools, friends and communities where possible. Children of all ages need safe, stable and supportive homes across the East Midlands.

Why Foster for East Midlands Councils is attending Pride events

Foster for East Midlands Councils launched in March 2024 and has received more than 600 enquiries from people interested in fostering. The councils say more carers are still needed to meet growing demand.

Councillor Paul Hezelgrave, Lead Cabinet Member for Fostering for the East Midlands, said Pride Month is a chance to recognise the diversity of the fostering community and the role LGBTQ+ foster carers play in giving children safe and stable homes.

He said some people still may not see themselves as potential foster carers, but fostering is about offering care, stability and encouragement to a child who needs it. He encouraged anyone who has considered fostering not to rule themselves out before having a conversation.

How to take the next step

People interested in becoming a foster carer can speak to the team at one of the listed Pride event stands.

They can also contact Foster for East Midlands Councils by emailing hello@fosterforeastmidlands.org.uk or calling 03033 132 950.

Source: Derby City Council

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Amelia Khan

Amelia Khan

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Amelia Khan covers Derby’s local government, neighbourhood services, planning decisions and community concerns with a focus on clear public-interest reporting. She checks official records, follows meeting papers and speaks with residents, campaigners and service users to explain how civic decisions affect daily life. Her work prioritises accuracy, context and practical information for readers across the city

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