471 reasons to care: festive stocking display calls for more foster carers

On Thursday 4 December, Weymouth Esplanade was transformed into a stunning festive display of over 470 handmade Christmas stockings – each one representing a child or young person in care in Dorset. 

This powerful visual is part of Dorset Council’s Give the Greatest Gift campaign, which aims to raise awareness and inspire more people to start their fostering journey with Dorset Council. 

The stockings were lovingly created by our local community – including foster carers, children in care, youth and community groups, and residents. You can find the display on Weymouth Esplanade, near the Jubilee Clock. 

Cllr Clare Sutton, Dorset Council Cabinet Member for Children's Services, Education and Skills said: 

“We’ve been overwhelmed by the response from our community. Every stocking tells a story of care and compassion, and together they send a clear message: every child deserves to feel safe and supported, not just at Christmas, but all year round. Our hope is that the display will spark conversation and encourage more people to consider fostering.” 

Dorset Council foster carer, Chris Smart, said:   

“Christmas reminds us how important family and belonging are. If you’ve ever thought about fostering, now is the time to take that first step. You could change a child’s life – and yours – forever.” 

Dorset Council would like to thank everyone who contributed to the display, including Coastal Nets for their generous donation of display netting – without this support, the community display wouldn’t have been possible.

A special thank you to the following organisations and groups for their support: 

• Dorset Council foster carers and children in care 

• Dorset Council employees and elected councillors 

• Littlemoor Youth Club 

• Ferndown Family Hub 

• Moonfleet Bowls Club

• Muntsys 

• Mumma Bees Café (Weymouth) 

• Swanage Library crotchet club 

• Weymouth Squirrels 

• Wyke Regis Infant School 

• Dorset's Youth Justice Service 

Give the Greatest Gift and foster with Dorset Council 

If you’ve ever thought about fostering, now is the perfect time to find out more. Visit www.fosterwithdorsetcouncil.com/christmas-campaign or call 01305 221000 for an informal chat.