Celebrating the strength of the fostering community

The Royal Borough of Greenwich took on Long Lane JFC in a friendly match on Saturday 16 May to celebrate the life-changing power of fostering, and the relationships that help children and young people thrive.

Councillors, staff, foster carers and residents swapped their day jobs to become footballers as they formed RBG United. Just like fostering, the match showed how strong support networks, trusted relationships and teamwork can help children feel safe, supported and able to reach their full potential. 

Managed by footballer-turned-foster carer Paul Smith, RBG United said: “Football and fostering have a lot in common – it's all about trust, encouragement and people being there for each other. 

“There was a real family atmosphere, with everyone coming together, enjoying themselves and supporting one another. Seeing the children laughing, playing and feeling part of something special is what it’s all about. 

“Events like this go beyond football. They bring people closer together, create lasting memories and show the strong sense of community that sits at the heart of fostering. 

Despite losing 4-6, the real winner of the day was the fostering community itself, with the match celebrating the relationships, encouragement and sense of belonging that help children in care thrive.  

Paul Smith, who temporarily swapped his role as a foster carer to become the team’s manager, said: “There was a real family atmosphere, with everyone coming together, enjoying themselves and supporting one another. Seeing the children laughing, playing and feeling part of something special is what it’s all about. 

“Events like this go beyond football. They bring people closer together, create lasting memories and show the strong sense of community that sits at the heart of fostering. 

Despite losing 6-4, the real winner of the day was the fostering community itself, with the match celebrating the relationships, encouragement and sense of belonging that help children in care thrive.  

Tony Jacobs, a foster carer that played on the day said: “It was such a special day to be part of. Seeing fostering families come together, have fun and support one another really means a lot.  

“I enjoyed the game, and it was great to dust the football boots off again, but the best part was seeing so many smiles and people enjoying themselves together." 

The match, which was held at Kidbrooke Playing Fields, formed part of the council’s activities for Foster Care Fortnight, which this year highlights the importance of relationships in helping children and young people feel connected, supported and valued.  

Councillor Adel Khaireh, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, said: “The atmosphere on Saturday was something special, truly capturing the spirit of our fostering community. It showed that despite challenges, unity and teamwork will always shine through.  

“This match was about far more than football. From the head coach and the fans to the referee and the players, the day highlighted how strong, supportive and deeply connected our fostering community is. Every child deserves a strong team around them – people who encourage them, believe in them and help them feel they belong. 

“With over 400 children in care in Greenwich, we urgently need more local foster carers. If you think you could be part of this incredible team, get in touch. It will change your life – and we’ll be with you every step of the way offering training and support.” 

After the game, each player received medals with James Spencer chosen as player of the match, winning the golden boot. 

The day would not have been possible without Long Lane JFC, Maritime Radio and Kent FA referee Michael Brown. 

Are you interested in fostering? 

To foster you need to be:  

• Over 18 
• Have a spare room 
• Have time to dedicate to caring for a child  

Could you? Contact the Royal Borough of Greenwich fostering team on 0800 052 1499 or fostering-recruitment@royalgreenwich.gov.uk.