Greenwich hosts its first-ever football match uniting foster carers, children, and council staff to celebrate Foster Care Fortnight, highlighting the power of relationships in building brighter futures for young people.
Greenwich is set to host a landmark event this Foster Care Fortnight with its first ever council football match, aimed at highlighting the power of relationships in fostering. The friendly game will take place on Saturday, 17 May, featuring a unique team composed of foster carers, children in care, council staff, and local councillors, who will face off against the Avery Hill reserves.
Anthony Okereke, Leader of the Royal Borough of Greenwich and captain of the council’s team, expressed his pride in leading the diverse group onto the pitch. “I’m proud to be leading such an inspiring line-up,” he said. “Relationships are a powerful thing, and the fostering networks we’re building here are vital to ensuring no child is left behind. Behind every young person in care, there’s a story shaped by the people who stood by them. This match is more than a game; it’s a celebration of those connections that help children reach their full potential.”
The event reflects the broader challenges faced across the UK, where a shortage of foster carers has placed extra pressure on local authorities. Councillor Okereke emphasised the collective responsibility to recognise and harness the power everyone holds to make a difference in the lives of vulnerable children.
“This match is more than a game; it’s about celebrating the connections that help children reach their full potential.”
Anthony Okereke, council leader
Football, much like fostering, thrives on strong relationships—between teammates, mentors, and communities. This event brings that idea to life, illustrating how supportive bonds and shared goals can boost confidence, resilience, and brighter futures for young people. The match will feature live commentary on Maritime Radio, and the council will share updates and highlights via their social media channels throughout the day.
Adel Khaireh, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, highlighted the deeper significance of fostering beyond providing shelter. “Fostering is about more than just a roof over a child’s head. It’s about helping children reach their full potential by building the supportive, loving relationships they need to thrive,” she said. “Relationships are an essential part of making this happen, whether it’s support for the child or for the carers. I can’t wait to see all the faces that make up our fostering community on Saturday, and I hope we walk away with a win.”
The football match is just one part of a wider programme organised by the council for Foster Care Fortnight. Alongside the game, a series of pop-up stalls will be hosted at various community locations throughout the borough to raise awareness about fostering and encourage more people to consider becoming carers. These events will provide opportunities for residents to learn about fostering, ask questions, and connect with professionals and experienced carers.
Additionally, the council will hold an online fostering information session towards the end of the fortnight, designed to offer convenient access for those interested in learning more or beginning their fostering journey.
Foster Care Fortnight is a national campaign held twice a year to recognise the vital role of foster carers and raise awareness about the need for more people to step forward. This year, Greenwich’s football match and community events put a spotlight on the importance of relationships as the foundation of successful fostering.
The council’s initiative sends a powerful message that every role within the fostering community matters—from carers and social workers to friends, teachers, and neighbours. Each connection contributes to creating a supportive environment where children can thrive.
There’s more happening across the week to mark Foster Care Fortnight:
· Friday 16 May, 10am to12pm: Pop-up stall at Woolwich Library
· Monday 19 May,12pm to 2pm: Pop-up stall at Oxleas Woods
· Tuesday 20 May, 11am to 1pm: Pop-up stall at Greenwich Forum
· Wednesday 21 May, 6pm to 8pm: Online fostering information event – Sign up here
· Thursday 22 May, 12pm to 2pm: Pop-up stall at Tramshed
