Posted on 2nd Dec
Oh no they didn’t, oh yes, they did! Fostering families were treated to an evening at Mansfield Palace Theatre during the opening weekend of its annual panto, Aladdin.
In Nottinghamshire alone, there are more than 950 children who may need foster care at any given time, including many from Mansfield. To address this need, local authorities from Nottinghamshire, Nottingham City, Derbyshire, and Derby City councils have joined forces to create the Foster for East Midlands recruitment hub. This collaboration aims to ensure children can remain within their communities, cared for by local families with the full support of their councils.
For some foster children, this was their first-ever pantomime — a magical experience many might take for granted. The foster team thanked the theatre for recognising the importance of creating moments of joy and laughter for every child.
The evening also showed how important it is to help children in care. The Foster for East Midlands initiative is asking local people to come forward and help. By becoming a foster carer, you could give children the chance to be part of a loving home and enjoy experiences they might never have had before.
Sian Booth, cultural services manager for Mansfield District Council, which runs the theatre, said: “We were really thrilled to welcome Foster East Midlands. As a care experienced person and an advocate for children in care myself, I am so aware of how special moments like Christmas and time with loved ones are even more important. We wish them all a happy festive period.”
Coun Paul Hezelgrave, lead council’s cabinet member for Foster East Midlands said: “We are incredibly grateful to Mansfield Palace Theatre for offering this wonderful opportunity to our fostering families. Experiences like this help create special memories for both carers and children, reminding us of the joy and connection that fostering can bring. It’s a fantastic example of how communities can come together to support foster families and celebrate the magic of family life.”
To learn more about fostering and keeping children in their communities, visit fosterforeastmidlands.org.uk, call 03033 132 950, or email hello@fosterforeastmidlands.
