Foster with Slough, Slough Children First’s fostering agency, recently celebrated the launch of its third Mockingbird Hub with a garden party in the sun.
The celebration, which took place at the home of one of the hub carers, came just over a year after the fostering agency launched its second constellation. Foster carers, children and young people from seven satellite fostering families in the new constellation and staff members came together to mark the beginning of what will become another close-knit support network.
The Mockingbird Family Model, brought to the UK by The Fostering Network, brings fostering families together in “constellations” that work like extended families.
At the centre is a hub home, offering practical help, emotional support, sleepovers and a steady presence for children and carers when they need it most. Hub carers play a key role, offering day-to-day guidance, arranging support and sleepovers, and helping families stay connected during difficult moments, ensuring children remain within familiar, trusted relationships.
“Fostering can be amazing, but it can also feel overwhelming at times. Knowing there is someone there who understands is a big help,” one of the hub carers said. This hub is about bringing people together, so children can build friendships, and carers can lean on each other. It’s about making sure no one feels alone.”
Saima Arif, Head of Regulated Services at Slough Children First, said: “Mockingbird is all about relationships, and seeing families come together as this brings it to life. We see children become more settled, carers feel more supported, and a real sense of belonging grow across the group.”
Since the launch of the first Mockingbird constellation in Slough in 2018, the hubs and Slough Children First’s fostering agency have continued to deliver strong outcomes in the borough, including improving placement stability for children and young people, building a resilient, caring community and reducing placement disruptions.
The Mockingbird model has also created a space where carers can naturally learn from one another, building confidence and sharing experiences in a way that feels informal but powerful.
Debbie Jones, Executive Director of Children’s Services and Chief Executive of Slough Children First, said:
“The launch of another Mockingbird constellation for Slough marks a significant step for our fostering family.
“Mockingbird creates a sense of belonging, and we are confident we will very soon see the positive impact of our scheme for the children and families involved. Every child deserves to grow up knowing they are surrounded by people who care, and Mockingbird will help with that.”
Foster with Slough is encouraging more people across the borough to consider fostering.
Whether single or in a partnership, from the LGBTQIA+ community, working or retired, homeowners or renters, all are welcome to apply. What matters most is the ability to offer stability, care and time to a child who needs it.
With full training, ongoing support and the backing of the Mockingbird network, foster carers are never left to do it alone.
Anyone interested in finding out more about fostering can contact Foster with Slough via the website https://www.fosterwithslough.co.uk/ or chat to one of our friendly team on 0300 131 2797. We can also offer you the opportunity to speak to one of our existing foster carers to hear from someone who knows what caring means on a daily basis.
Foster with Slough is the fostering agency of Slough Children First, an independent not-for-profit company providing social care and support services to children, young people, and families. For more information about Foster with Slough and the Mockingbird programme, visit www.fosterwithslough.co.uk or call 0300 131 2797
