New Fostering Champion Appointed to Boost Care in Devon
UPDATE: Devon County Council has just announced the creation of a vital new role aimed at enhancing support for children in care and foster carers across the county. Councillor Robin Julian has been appointed as the first-ever Fostering Member Champion for the Children’s Scrutiny Committee, a move that underscores the council’s commitment to ensuring that the voices of those most affected are heard.
This urgent initiative comes as Devon grapples with an ongoing shortage of foster carers, especially for older children and sibling groups who need stable, supportive environments. The council’s goal is clear: to keep children close to their families, friends, and established support networks while addressing the pressing need for more foster families.
Cllr Julian, who previously served on the council from 2013 to 2017 and was re-elected in 2025, stated, “Foster carers give children the love and stability they deserve. My job is to make sure that their voices shape our decisions and that Devon continues to improve the support we offer.” His focus will be on recruiting more foster carers and ensuring they feel valued and supported in their critical roles.
The appointment follows recommendations from the Committee’s Fostering Task Group, which reviewed findings in March 2025. The establishment of the Fostering Member Champion was confirmed in September 2025 and formally approved during a meeting in November 2025 to maintain accountability and focus on fostering needs.
Councillor Frank Biederman, Chair of the Children’s Scrutiny Committee, expressed his enthusiasm for Cllr Julian’s appointment, emphasizing the importance of fostering in the lives of many children in Devon. He remarked, “Having a dedicated Champion ensures that their needs remain at the forefront of our work. Robin’s commitment will help us strengthen scrutiny and drive positive change for families and carers across the county.”
Currently, Devon County Council has 251 registered fostering households. The Fostering Member Champion will collaborate closely with the Lead Member for Children’s Services and senior management to ensure fostering services are effectively scrutinized.
In tandem with this announcement, the council cabinet approved a significant £2 million investment in Devon’s fostering services in November 2025. Starting in April 2026, foster carers will receive improved fees and allowances, including tiered carer fees based on children’s age and complexity of needs. Additional support measures will include emergency rota services and enhanced payments for carers supporting children with higher needs.
This funding comes after a consultation with foster carers in July 2025 and follows a June 2025 decision by councillors to endorse an annual council tax relief scheme for foster carers. The aim is to combat a concerning trend where more carers are leaving than joining, reflecting a national decline in fostering households by up to a third since 2020.
As Devon County Council takes these crucial steps to bolster its fostering services, the community is urged to support the initiative and consider the rewarding opportunity of fostering. The need for dedicated and compassionate foster families is more pressing than ever.
