Community Foster Care has moved to new premises in the heart of Gloucester.
As the charity marks its 21st anniversary, Chief Executive Mark Kingston said the move to Kingsholm Road “marks a mighty step in our coming-of-age strategy”.
“When Community Foster Care started life, it was inspired by a belief in the local communities of Matson, Coney Hill and Hester’s Way. The aim was to invest in these communities and together provide loving homes to the children in our care,” he said.
“Since we have moved here from Staunton, we have seen many more children, young people and carers here at Kingsholm – which is brilliant.”
More than 70 people attended an open day which included a buffet, bouncy castle, children’s entertainer and painting room.
Patron of CFC Dame Janet Trotter performed the official ribbon-cutting with the help of foster carers Wendy and Steve Impey who have been with the charity since it started, and Gloucester rugby player Henry Trinder who is also a foster carer for Community Foster Care.
“Community is very much part of this organisation,” she said. “It may seem strange that we are here to celebrate a building but it’s important because it is in the middle of the Gloucester community. We want to interact with this community and draw more people in to fostering and the wonderful work that Community Foster Care does.”
Chair of Trustees Judge Charles Wade added: “Here we are at the heart of the City of Gloucester, enabling our carers and staff to access the centre of operations much more easily than before. I and the Trustees are confident that it will have a major positive impact upon the future of the charity.”
Mark thanked everyone who makes the work of Community Foster Care possible. “I am lucky to lead an organisation with such fantastic carers and staff. You really are remarkable,” he said.
