The Royal Borough of Greenwich will host its first ever football match to celebrate the Power of Relationships this Foster Care Fortnight.
The council’s team made up of foster carers, children in care, council staff and local councillors will take on the Avery Hill reserves in an friendly match on Saturday 17 May.
Councillor Anthony Okereke, the Leader of the Royal Borough of Greenwich, who will be captaining a team, said: “I’m proud to be leading such an inspiring line-up onto the pitch.
“Relationships are a powerful thing, and the fostering networks we’re building in Royal Greenwich are vital to ensuring no child is left behind. It’s a is a reminder that behind every young person in care, there’s a story shaped by the people who stood by them.
“This match is more than a game; it’s about celebrating the connections that help children reach their full potential. At a time when the UK is facing a critical shortage of foster carers, we need to come together and recognise the power we each have to make a difference.”
Football, like fostering, relies on relationships, between teammates, mentors and communities. This event brings that idea to life, showcasing how strong bonds and shared goals can build confidence, resilience, and brighter futures for young people.
Live commentary will be available on Maritime Radio, and updates will be shared across the council’s social media channels throughout the day.
Councillor Adel Khaireh, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, said: “Fostering is about more than just providing a roof over a child’s head, it’s about helping children reach their full potential by building the kind of supportive, loving relationships they need to thrive.
“Relationships are an essential part of making this happen, whether its support for the child or for the carers. I can’t wait to see all the faces that make up our fostering community on Saturday and I hope we walk away with a win.”
The match is just one part of a wider programme during Foster Care Fortnight. Across the two weeks, the council is hosting pop-up stalls and an online event to raise awareness and encourage more people to consider fostering.
There’s more happening across the week to mark Foster Care Fortnight:
· Tuesday 13 May, 11am to 1pm: Pop-up stall at Age Exchange Community Hub, Blackheath
· Wednesday 14 May, 9:30am to 11:30am: Pop-up Stall at Thamesmere Library and Leisure Centre
· Friday 16 May, 10am to12pm: Pop-up stall at Woolwich Library
· Monday 19 May,12pm to 2pm: Pop-up stall at Oxleas Woods
· Tuesday 20 May, 11am to 1pm: Pop-up stall at Greenwich Forum
· Wednesday 21 May, 6pm to 8pm: Online fostering information event – Sign up here
· Thursday 22 May, 12pm to 2pm: Pop-up stall at Tramshed
This Foster Care Fortnight, we salute every player in the fostering team, from carers, social workers, friends, teachers and neighbours each relationship matters. Are you ready to start your fostering story? royalgreenwich.gov.uk/fostering
