2025: A Year to Remember at Olive Branch Fostering

As we reflect on 2025, we’re incredibly proud of what has been an inspiring and meaningful year for Olive Branch Fostering.

From national recognition to community celebrations, this year has been shaped by connection, care and a shared commitment to supporting our foster families and the children and young people in their care.

Here’s a look back at some of the standout moments that made 2025 so special.

Outstanding Ofsted Rating

We began the year on a high note, receiving an Outstanding rating from Ofsted. This recognition reflects the exceptional care provided by our foster carers and the dedication of our wider team, as well as the safe, nurturing environments created for children and young people across our service.

Supporting Wellbeing: Health and Wellbeing Event

Looking after our foster families means prioritising wellbeing, and our Health and Wellbeing event did just that. Foster carers and their families came together for an uplifting and inspiring day, featuring Olympic medal-winning Cindy Ngamba, alongside a special video message from author Adam Kay.

The importance of this event was also recognised beyond our community, with the Lancashire Telegraph featuring the day and highlighting the focus on wellbeing and support for foster families.

Celebrating Culture and Community

Throughout the year, we continued to create meaningful opportunities for foster families to come together and celebrate.

Our Eid celebration provided a joyful and inclusive space to mark an important cultural occasion, while Diversity Day celebrated the rich range of cultures, backgrounds and identities within the Olive Branch family. Both events reflected our ongoing commitment to inclusion, understanding and belonging.

An Inspirational Challenge: Raja Aslam’s Run to The Hague

One of the most powerful moments of the year was foster carer Raja Aslam’s remarkable run from Salford to The Hague. Raja undertook this challenge to raise vital funds for the Duke of Edinburgh Scheme and to raise awareness and support for young people in care, demonstrating resilience, dedication and compassion every step of the way.

His incredible journey received wide media coverage, including meeting Sir Mo Farah, features on ITV News and BBC Radio Lancashire, all helping to shine a national spotlight on fostering and the life-changing impact of care.

Honouring Our Foster Carers: Awards and Recognition

2025 saw the launch of the first ever Olive Branch Fostering Awards Ceremony, a milestone event dedicated to recognising the commitment, compassion and achievements of our foster carers. It was a truly special evening, celebrating those who make a difference every day.

We were also proud to be nominated for a RISE Award by Lancashire County Council, recognising innovation, support and excellence in fostering, and to be named a finalist in the Rossendale Business Awards, celebrating our contribution to the local community.

Ending the Year with Magic: Winter Wonderland

We rounded off the year with our much-loved Winter Wonderland event, bringing festive cheer to our foster families. Filled with seasonal activities, laughter and togetherness, it was a heart-warming way to say thank you to our carers and the children they support.

Looking Ahead To 2026

Every event and achievement in 2025 has been about one thing, supporting and celebrating our foster families. We are incredibly grateful to our carers, staff and partners for being part of the Olive Branch community and for the life-changing difference you make.

As we look ahead to 2026, we remain committed to continuing this journey together, supporting children and families to thrive.