The Mockingbird Family Hub Model, an innovative foster care programme designed to create a nurturing community for children and young people in care, is celebrating a decade of helping foster families in the Royal Borough of Greenwich.
The hubs have been praised by foster carers for the ‘invaluable support’ they provide – “it’s the best thing I’ve ever done” said one.
The Mockingbird Family Hub Model of fostering was first set up in Greenwich in 2016. It involves linking foster families with an experienced foster carer, known as the ‘hub carer’, who provides guidance and support for both adults and children in foster families as they navigate their new lives together.
This video shines a light on the incredible carers who are part of our Mockingbird family:
The Royal Borough of Greenwich was one of the first London councils to introduce the Mockingbird model, an approach originating in the USA. It is now firmly established in the borough and continues to expand.
Councillor Sandra Bauer, Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Post-16 Futures, said: “They say it takes a village to raise a child, and the Mockingbird programme really embraces this. It reminds us that fostering is never done alone – it takes a community coming together. We are so proud of our fostering community here in Greenwich.
“Over the last 10 years, the Mockingbird Family Hub Model has had a huge impact, from supporting carer retention to creating a network where children and carers feel connected and supported. I look forward to seeing the programme continue to thrive and make lasting change for fostering families over the next 10 years.”
Across Greenwich, five hubs support 10 to 12 families each, reaching up to 18 children per hub. Through regular meet-ups, shared activities, and sleepovers, children and carers build trusted relationships that reduce isolation, strengthen placement stability, and create a sense of belonging.
HUB SPOTLIGHT
The strength of these relationships was clear at the recent seventh anniversary celebration of SE6 ACES, one of Greenwich’s longest-running hubs. Both current and former foster families came together for a day of warmth, laughter and reflection, where they shared a meal and cake, played games and looked at photos capturing the spirit of the hub.
For one of our Friends and Family foster carers, Mockingbird has been a deeply meaningful part of her family’s journey. As her young person approaches adulthood and her family prepares to move on, she said:
“For me, I was grateful to be somewhere where I didn’t have to explain B’s behaviour—where people were always kind to him.”
“Our Mockingbird family gave B a friend who has grown into a proper friendship—thank you for helping their relationship to flourish. Jennifer [her Hub Carer] was always available to answer questions, share information and offer support. I am in awe of everyone's warmth, generosity, patience and tenacity. I wish young people didn’t need foster carers, but I am so grateful that you are there.”
She also thanked their Liaison Worker for her “calm, kind and informative presence.”
Michala and Jean, two foster carers who are part of MFM4, another Mockingbird Hub, say “It has provided us with fostering peers, invaluable support and the opportunity to grow relationships with fostering families.
“Sleepovers have given our foster children a safe space to take a break, while allowing us time to rest, reflect and spend positive time together as a couple. Jo [their Hub Carer] is always at the end of the phone and very quick to respond and provide support in times of need. This has been key support to us as a fostering household. Being part of MFM4 has allowed us to support each other during difficult times and celebrate achievements together.”
They also recognised the role of their Supervising Social Worker “who is instrumental in her support to us and the children in our care.”
Are you interested in fostering?
To foster you need to:
- Be over 18
- Have space in your house
- Have time to dedicate to caring for a child
Could you? Contact us on 0800 052 1499 or fostering-recruitment@royalgreenwich.gov.uk.or find out more Become a foster carer | Royal Borough of Greenwich