Laughter, music and a touch of magic filled Wexham Secondary School recently as Foster With Slough, the fostering agency run by Slough Children First, brought together councillors, local partners, dignitaries, foster carers and children to celebrate the success of Slough’s two Mockingbird family hubs.
The Mockingbird model creates a “family of families”, a network where foster carers support each other and children looked after can flourish. Slough’s two hubs, led by Denise, and Helen and Abu, are at the heart of this vision. They provide advice, encouragement and opportunities for carers and children to connect through fun activities, shared meals, and community events.
The celebration evening was a colourful reflection of this spirit.
Guests were mesmerised by Marco Cardoso the magician, performing tricks that wowed children and adults alike. Families came together to share simple food, reflecting the diversity of those within the Mockingbird hubs.
The music was hand-picked by carers and children themselves, ensuring the evening was a true celebration of them. And when the Slough Community Youth Soul Choir filled the hall with live songs, everyone was up dancing, and the atmosphere was electric.
Around the hall, photos and videos showcased the year’s Mockingbird activities, and children’s artwork added a personal, vibrant touch. Together, these displays told the story of a year filled with laughter, learning, and growing together.
The most touching moments came when carers and children spoke from the heart. They shared how Mockingbird has helped them feel like one big fostering family, providing support, connection, and the reassurance that no one must face the fostering journey alone.
Sue Butcher, Executive Director of Children’s Services and Chief Executive of Slough Children First, said: “At the heart of Mockingbird is the belief that when carers feel supported, children thrive. Tonight’s celebration shows just how much this model has already achieved in Slough, creating spaces where our children feel Happy, Safe & loved, Thriving.”
Saima Arif, Head of Service for Regulated Services, added:
“The leadership from Denise, Helen & Abu has been incredible. They’ve built hubs where carers and children feel a real sense of belonging, and tonight, we’ve seen that community spirit in action.
Hub Home Carers, Denise, Helen and Abu said:
“Seeing our families come together tonight has been so special. Mockingbird is about sharing the journey, the ups, the downs, and everything in between and making sure no one feels alone. We are so proud of how far our families have come, and tonight shows that together, we really are one big fostering family.”
Slough Children First is committed to expanding the Mockingbird model further, we aim to launch a third hub next year, ensuring even more fostering families in Slough benefit from this unique support, connection, and the joy they deserve.
For more information about Foster with Slough and the Mockingbird programme, visit www.fosterwithslough.co.uk or call 0300 131 2797.
