Carrie Worth, Fostering South West Team Manager, said “today was something very unique and special. It is the first time local authority foster carers and children from across the South West have come together and been able to unite with other fostering families. Today was our way of saying thank you to families who foster for all their amazing work, passion and dedication. 

“The support from each of the venues has been wonderful in helping to organise and support fostering families to have such a fun and enjoyable day out. We’ve seen foster carers and children making new connections, forging of new friendships and children and adults alike having lots of fun.” 

A local council foster carer said “We all had such a lovely day and the children had beaming smiles on their faces all day. It was great to see some familiar faces, put faces to names but also widen our network of fellow foster carers across the region.” 

Steph Dawson, Business Development Manager for Wild Planet Trust, the parent charity of both Paignton and Newquay Zoo shared “we were delighted to host the celebration day for Fostering South West, in collaboration with TOMY’s Mood Bears. As a place where families can create lasting memories, we’re honoured that both Paignton Zoo and Newquay Zoo were chosen for this meaningful day. A huge thanks goes to the Mood Bears team, especially for pairing Sayang with the Hope Bear. We welcome all community groups to make our unique natural setting their special gathering place.” 

Cotswold Wildlife Park and Garden’s Managing Director, Reggie Heyworth, said: “We are delighted to welcome Fostering South West and foster carers from local authorities all over the region to Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens today. We know a thing or two about nurturing the next generation here at the Park, and so we are honoured to host an event that celebrates the invaluable contribution foster carers make to our communities and to the lives of children and young people.”