Fostering is often talked about in broad terms: care, support, making a difference. But for the 76 Southend foster carers living it every day, the reality is far more human, complex and powerful.
That's exactly what Foster Care Fortnight 2026 (11 to 24 May) is setting out to show.
As the UK's biggest awareness campaign for fostering, this year's theme, 'This is Fostering,' shines a light on the rewarding moments, the challenges, and the vital support carers need and receive to continue making a difference.
Who can foster
Southend Fostering is currently looking to add four foster carers to its network this year. Interestingly, many people assume that fostering requires a particular background or experience, but carers come from all walks of life.
To foster, you just need to be over the age of 21 and have a spare room, regardless of your ethnic background, employment status, marital status or sexual orientation. Financially, you will receive a fostering fee and a generous allowance for each child in placement.
Lissa-Marie Minnis, Director of Children's Social Work, Early Help and Youth Support, said: "Fostering is one of the most meaningful ways people can make a difference, not just to a child, but to an entire family and community. This story captures something incredibly powerful: the importance of connection, trust and simply being there, day after day. In Southend, we are proud to support our foster carers through initiatives like Mockingbird, which creates a strong, supportive network around them. It means no one is fostering alone.
"We know that people often think fostering requires extraordinary circumstances, but the reality is that it's about ordinary people doing something extraordinary. If you've ever thought about fostering, we'd really encourage you to come and have a conversation with us. It could be the start of something truly lifechanging."
Find out more about who can foster, the different types of foster care, the financial rewards and much more on the Southend Fostering website or by emailing fostering@southend.gov.uk.
A mum foster carer's story
What does fostering really look like?
In Southend, one answer comes from Hub Carer Debbie Kelly, who has a 24-year-old daughter and a 13-year-old-son. While her daughter has flown the nest, Debbie says her son is "very much part of my fostering journey."
"I went into fostering 11 years ago because I love kids and love the idea of a busy household. I also wanted to be at home for my kids whilst providing a safe home for other children along the way," Debbie explains.
But what exactly is a Hub carer? Within the Mockingbird programme a Hub Carer supports a group of local foster families (known as satellite carers), creating a close-knit network where no one is left to cope on their own.
Think of it less as individual fostering households and more as a connected community.
"It means you're part of something bigger," Debbie explains. "There's always someone there who understands what you're going through."
Many of Southend's foster carers do it long-term. In fact, recently one foster carer received a "long-term achievement award" for 40 years of fostering.
"No two days are ever the same"
For this Southend Hub Carer, the day often begins in a familiar way.
"Mornings start like any other family home: getting everyone ready, making breakfast, finding missing shoes before the school run," Debbie says.
"But at the same time, I'm checking our Mockingbird WhatsApp group to see who might need support."
That support can take many forms.
"One day it might be helping with a school run or childcare. Another day, it's soft play, arts and crafts, or simply being there. Sometimes it's making sure children get to where they need to be and feel safe while they're doing it."
It's this balance, practical help alongside emotional presence, that defines the role.
More than one child, more than one family
Fostering doesn't happen in isolation.
Through Mockingbird, foster carers are supported by others who understand the realities of the role: the good days and the difficult ones.
"There are always check-ins with other carers," she explains. "That might be listening after a tough night, offering reassurance during a crisis, or stepping in when someone needs a break. I learn so much from their experiences too."
If you think about it, this support doesn't just benefit the 92 foster care children in Southend; it sustains the carers themselves.
The moments that stay with you
While the role comes with responsibility, it is often the quieter moments that leave the biggest impact.
"Some of the best moments come from the relationships that build over time," Debbie says. "Looking after children with complex needs means trust isn't instant, but when it happens, it's incredibly special."
And the experience is not without joy. From day trips and activities to simple time spent together, there is laughter alongside the challenges.
"At the Hub home, we host cooking sessions and activities where children can spend time together, enjoy sibling contact, and simply feel part of a family environment. I genuinely enjoy the laughter, the chaos and seeing young people relax and just be themselves."
Not about perfection but about presence
For anyone considering fostering, one message is clear: You don't need to be perfect.
"Being a Hub Carer isn't about grand gestures," she says. "It's about showing up, day after day, offering practical help, emotional support, and a safe place for children and carers alike."
There are busy days. Unpredictable ones. Moments that test your patience and resilience.
"It's busy, unpredictable, sometimes exhausting, but it's also full of trust, laughter, and the kind of moments that remind you why Mockingbird matters so much."
Come and have a conversation
Like many areas across the UK, there is an ongoing need for more carers. We need at least four new carers this year.
Southend-on-Sea City Council is encouraging anyone who has ever thought about fostering to take the first step, simply by finding out more.
Join us at our upcoming events this month:
- In Harmony Festival stall on 24 May
- Civic Centre Information Event on 28 May
- virtual sessions available via the Southend Fostering website
No two days are ever the same. But every day, you have the chance to make a difference.