Dartmoor Zoo offers free access to foster families in Plymouth

Foster families in Plymouth are being treated to a wild adventure at Dartmoor Zoo – completely free of charge. The zoo has generously pledged to provide a free family ticket to each of Plymouth City Council’s 109 foster families, along with connected carers from the council’s fostering service, Foster for Plymouth. These connected carers are family members fostering children from their own relatives.

The initiative has been warmly welcomed by the council. Councillor Jemima Laing, cabinet member for children’s social care, expressed her gratitude, saying: “We were genuinely blown away by this generous offer from Dartmoor Zoo. Our foster carers work so hard to provide safe, loving homes for children in Plymouth. This kind donation allows foster families to create lasting memories together while enjoying a fantastic day out.”

In addition to the tickets, Dartmoor Zoo is extending its support to Foster for Plymouth by offering free use of event spaces at the zoo and displaying fostering advertisements on its digital screens at no charge.

David Gibson, Dartmoor Zoo’s chief executive, explained the zoo’s commitment, saying: “As soon as I learned about the challenge Foster for Plymouth is facing in recruiting new foster carers, I knew we had to help. Dartmoor Zoo has always been focused on fostering a nurturing, caring environment for families, and this is a cause we are passionate about supporting. We look forward to working with Foster for Plymouth.”

Currently, over 500 children are in the care of Plymouth’s local authority, and there is a pressing need for more foster carers. Foster for Plymouth is dedicated to ensuring local children remain in familiar surroundings, staying close to their schools, friends, and family members.

The partnership with Dartmoor Zoo highlights the importance of community support for fostering services and provides a valuable opportunity for families to bond and enjoy unique experiences together.