Stockport Independent Issue 203

MAY/JUNE 2026 12 AN appeal has been launched asking people in Cheshire East to step forward as foster carers. The call was sent out dur- ing Foster Care Fortnight in mid-May, highlighting a growing need for sup- port for teenagers and sib- ling groups. The campaign shined a spotlight on the many differ- ent types of fostering availa- ble – including respite, short term, short breaks, emer- gency, remand, step-down and parent and child. During the fortnight Cheshire East Council worked to increase aware- ness of the benefits of a career in fostering, These include becoming part of a fostering community with regular social events, access to a dedicated super- vising social worker, ongoing training, a generous salary, leisure passes, a fostering allowance, a £500 referral bonus and more. The council also took time to reward its existing fos- ter care families during the awareness campaign – host- ing events and days out for them and their families, as a thank you for supporting vul- nerable children and young people in the borough. Laura Crane, who chairs the local authority’s children and families committee, said: “Foster Care Fort- night may offer a two-week period to really reflect on the importance of fostering, but throughout the year, every year, we’re always in awe of the commitment and dedi- cation of our Cheshire East foster carers. “A career in fostering is so special, rewarding but also extremely selfless with no two days the same, and this year’s theme will help to highlight the many different types of fostering and flexible options available. “In particular we’re on the lookout for more foster carers of teenagers, siblings and for those with additional needs in the form of short break carers, so it’s vital we reach out to those consider- ing trying their hand at a new profession. “We’d urge anyone curious about fostering to have a chat with our friendly team, who can find the right form of fostering for them, that fits within their lifestyle.” People considering start- ing their fostering journey are being urged to visit www.foster4.co.uk, email: enquiry@foster4.co.uk or call 03456 460098. ORGANISERS have declared this year’s Mac- clesfield Beer Festival a glass-raising success. The two-day event at Mac- clesfield Rugby Union club marked the 30th anniversary of the ever-popular festival and attracted the crowds. The pre-opening sponsors’ night saw a huge turnout from local businesses, with entertainment, raffle prizes and a 30th birthday cake. This year’s festival raised funds for Cardiac Risk in the Young (CRY), which helps provide potentially life-sav- ing heart screening for young people, and Macclesfield Boys Boxing Club. Music performances, including a set from rock band Toploader, entertained festivalgoers who had the choice of more than 100 beers. A festival spokesperson said: “It was another amaz- ing year. Each event we held was a huge success.” Macclesfield MP Tim Roca, who attended, paid tribute to festival volunteers. He said: “A huge thank you to all the volunteers who made this year’s Maccles- field Beer Festival such a fantastic event. “From the organisers to everyone pouring pints, set- ting up, clearing down, and keeping everything run- ning smoothly, your hard work made the festival what it was.” Call for foster carers Festival fun: Sponsors night saw a huge turnout (Photo credit:Maccbeerfest) Cheers to a fantastic festival