"Fostering is about so much more than providing a bed" - could you provide a loving home for siblings in West Sussex?

More foster carers are urgently needed in West Sussex to help keep brothers and sisters together when they come into care.

West Sussex County Council says siblings make up the majority of its emergency requests for foster carers, and that keeping children together can make a significant difference during a time of uncertainty and upheaval.

The appeal coincides with Foster Care Fortnight, which runs from 11 to 24 May and highlights the everyday reality of fostering.

For many children entering care, staying with a brother or sister can help them feel safer, less alone and more able to settle in a new home. The council says being separated from siblings can deepen feelings of loss, loneliness and anxiety, making it harder for children to feel secure and begin to heal.

Tracey, a West Sussex County Council foster carer from Crawley, knows first-hand the importance of caring for siblings, and how everyday acts of care can change lives. She said: “My fostering journey began with two little boys. They were small, polite, and unsure of everything. One of the first things we did was take them shopping so they could choose a few things of their own - a school uniform, shoes, bedding, and little bits that made their eyes light up.

“The next morning, one of them stood in front of the mirror, turning slowly, taking himself in. Then he smiled and said, ‘I look like everyone else.’ When we got to school, he didn’t walk in, he ran! His teacher later told us how different he seemed calmer, proud, like he finally felt he belonged.”

The county council says all children in its care are safe, but there are still more children needing homes than there are foster carers available. As a result, some children are living further away from their schools, friends and support networks.

The council says more local foster carers are needed, particularly those able to care for sibling groups of two or more.

Foster carers with West Sussex County Council receive professional support, training, and a financial package of up to £32,347 per year. Supported Lodgings Hosts can receive up to £15,496 per year, per child or young person, depending on experience, the age of the child and the length of time they are in care.

Director of Children’s Services, Dan Ruaux, said: “This is about recognising the everyday moments that truly matter; showing up, staying consistent, being patient, and offering reassurance when a child needs it most.

“It’s also about understanding how important it can be for siblings to stay together. Keeping brothers and sisters together, at what we know is a scary and uncertain time, can help children feel less alone and more able to rebuild trust.

“There are still many children and young people in need of a place to call home, and I would encourage anyone who has ever considered fostering, especially those who could help keep siblings together, to get in touch with our dedicated team.”

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