Left to right - Cllr Suzy Horton, Portsmouth FC mascot, Nelson, and deputy director, children's and families, Sam Bushby

'A Christmas to remember' for children cared for by Portsmouth City Council

Callum Murphy

Senior Campaign and Events Officer

General News

21 December 2023

A celebratory event for children cared for by Portsmouth City Council and their foster families was held at Portsmouth Historic Dockyard on Tuesday 19 December 2023. Children aged 5-17 years old took part in fun activities inside Action Stations.

It also provided an opportunity for social care practitioners to thank foster carers who support children in their homes every day.

Councillor Suzy Horton, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Children, Families and Education at Portsmouth City Council said:

"The children we care for deserve to have a Christmas to remember, full of fun and laughter. We know that every child in care will have their own unique experience, but we want to do our bit to support them at this time of year.

"Action Stations is the perfect venue where children can be themselves and enjoy their time together. I hope everyone had a fantastic time at this year's event, creating memorable experiences that will last for a long time to come."

Social care practitioners co-ordinated a range of activities including card making, face painting and arts and crafts alongside Portsmouth Football Club mascot, Nelson and Father Christmas greeting attendees.

Sam Bushby, deputy director, children and families at Portsmouth City Council said:

"The children we care for event is now in its 16^th year and continues to be enjoyed by those who attend. This has been a true team effort from across the council as well as outside organisations pulling together to make things possible.

"This was a fantastic celebration event for the children we care for. I'm hugely grateful to all those who worked together to create such an amazing day to celebrate their achievements."

Children who attend may not have the support network around them at this time of year, making this celebratory event even more important.

Foster carers and their families play an essential role in supporting children throughout the year in Portsmouth. For more information on fostering, please visit, foster.portsmouth.gov.uk.