Affinity Fostering puts the fun back into November with our 2023 Foster Carer Conference

For Affinity Foster Carers, November is a month that is hotly anticipated. Every year, all foster carers are invited to attend a 2-day conference which includes an overnight stay at a smart hotel.

“Our carers really value this time away,” says Andy, Director of Affinity Fostering. “Not only because they receive excellent training in a social setting but also because they get to spend time with other like-minded carers and the Affinity team, and this reinforces how important they are to the Affinity family.”

A Post-Halloween Treat

All foster carers understand the importance of good quality training and know that things in the world of fostering change rapidly. Foster carers need their agency to move with the times and equip their carers with the skills, knowledge and confidence to meet the evolving needs of children.

“The conference always gives us something new to learn, some new perspective, which is why it’s so helpful. Plus, you’re doing it with a good group of carers so you can bounce off each other and swap views and stories,” says one carer.

But the event is about so much more. It is an opportunity for the team at Affinity to thank their carers, to acknowledge all their hard work and dedication and to celebrate them.

“We always have a lovely evening on the first night of the conference,” says Andy. “We treat our carers to a 3-course meal and a night of entertainment. This year the evening is centred around the Great Gatsby theme and so it will be a great opportunity to dress up and kick back a bit!”

It’s good to talk

The Affinity team also really enjoys this yearly event. They get to spend time with the carers, in a relaxed ambience and feel free to enjoy each other’s company. Everything Affinity does is based on relationships, so the conference is an important opportunity for staff and carers to reconnect and strengthen those bonds.

“We spend a lot of time during the conference, talking to carers and seeking their views,” says Lesley, Registered Manager. “Our children and carers shape our service so it’s vital we hear from them about what we do well, but also what we could do better. The conference gives us the perfect opportunity to have those conversations.”