Santa fronts foster care campaign video

The campaign called Give the Greatest Gift is aimed at raising awareness of the urgent need for foster carers

A new campaign to recruit foster parents features a video of Father Christmas reading a child's heartfelt plea to feel safe this festive season.

Dorset Council said hundreds of children and young people needed foster carers who could provide stability, love and a safe place to call home.

The video plea shares the story of children's Christmas wishes, from wanting a bike, a football, a teddy bear to cuddle to feeling safe at home.

"We hope this campaign inspires people to learn more and consider fostering with Dorset Council in 2026," the council said.

As part of the campaign, the authority shared the experience of foster carer Chris Smart, who said: "Fostering has changed my life in ways I never imagined.

"Watching a child who arrived scared and uncertain start to laugh, feel safe, and trust again is the most incredible feeling.

"It's not always easy, but you're never alone – we have a brilliant fostering community in Dorset with a wealth of experience to tap into."

Clare Sutton, Dorset Council cabinet member for children's services, education and skills, said: "Christmas is a time when people think about what matters most.

"For children in care, the greatest gift often isn't toys or treats, it is somewhere safe to call home and to feel loved and cared for."