URGENT UPDATE: A pivotal new role has just been established in Devon County Council to amplify the voices of children in care and foster carers, enhancing the support provided across the county’s fostering services. Councillor Robin Julian has been appointed as the first-ever Fostering Member Champion for the Children’s Scrutiny Committee, a move that comes as the council addresses an urgent need for more foster carers.
The creation of this voluntary position is critical as Devon grapples with a shortage of foster families, particularly for older children and sibling groups. The council aims to keep children close to their communities, preserving vital connections with family and friends. Cllr Julian emphasized the importance of this role, stating, “Foster carers give children the love and stability they deserve. My job is to make sure that their voices shape our decisions and that Devon continues to improve the support we offer.”
This initiative is part of a broader strategy that follows recommendations from the Committee’s Fostering Task Group, which highlighted the need for increased focus on fostering services. The Children’s Scrutiny Committee approved the role in September 2025, with formal appointments made in November.
Councillor Frank Biederman, Chair of the Children’s Scrutiny Committee, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “Having a dedicated Champion ensures that the needs of children in Devon remain at the forefront of our work.” This commitment is timely as Devon County Council currently has 251 registered fostering households, and the new champion will collaborate closely with the Lead Member for Children’s Services to ensure effective scrutiny.
In a major boost to fostering services, the council also announced a substantial £2 million investment, approved in November 2025, set to take effect in April 2026. This funding will enhance fees and allowances for foster carers, including tiered carer fees based on children’s age and needs. Additional support measures will be introduced, such as emergency rota services and short-break schemes for children with disabilities.
These efforts are vital as the fostering sector faces significant challenges, with more carers leaving than joining. Recent consultations with foster carers in July 2025 revealed widespread feelings of undervalue, a concern echoed nationally where fostering households have plummeted by up to a third since 2020. The council aims to reverse this trend and recruit more foster families.
As this new chapter begins for Devon’s fostering services, all eyes will be on the impact of these initiatives and the ongoing commitment to support children in care and their carers. The community is urged to consider fostering as a rewarding opportunity. The first steps have been taken, but more actions are needed to strengthen this essential service for the children of Devon.
