After the strong reception of last year’s first ever match The Royal Borough of Greenwich will once again host its community football event.
Taking place during Foster Care Fortnight, the match is a celebration of the community spirt within fostering across Greenwich, and aims to encourage more people to consider becoming foster carers.
Building on last year’s spirit, RBG United, brings together carers, council staff and local residents together for a friendly uplifting community match. This year, the focus remains the same, creating an opportunity for people to connect, share experiences and better understand the role foster carers play in supporting children and young people.
This event recognises the ongoing commitment of our existing foster carers, while helping to raise awareness in an accessible and informal way. By bringing people together, it helps start conversations and gives a clearer picture of what fostering involves.
Just like football, fostering is about teamwork, commitment and believing in potential. This event brings that idea to life, showcasing how strong bonds and shared goals can build confidence, resilience, and a better future for young people.
Councillor Anthony Okereke, Leader of the Council, said: "We’re looking forward to bringing together many of the people who make up our fostering community for the second time, in an incredible event all about comradery. It takes a village to raise a child, and our incredible fostering community plays a vital role in making sure no child is left behind.
“Events like this are a great way to bring people together, celebrate the dedication of our foster carers and help more residents understand the positive difference fostering can make to a young person’s life.”
Cllr Adel Khaireh, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, said: “We’re proud that Royal Greenwich has such a strong and supportive community of foster carers, but we know there is still a need for more people to come forward.
“I would encourage anybody who is thinking about growing their family, or who has the space and stability to support a child or young person, to get in touch and find out more. You could help create the positive childhood memories every child deserves, and we’ll make sure you have the training, guidance and support needed throughout your fostering journey.”
Adrash, a foster carer and one of our RBG United players, said: “Last year’s match felt less like a competition and more like a meaningful community gathering. The atmosphere was so uplifting. I am looking forward to seeing that same spirit of unity and shared purpose grow this year, particularly in how it brings together those who work with and support children and families. Events like this help strengthen relationships, promote wellbeing, and create opportunities for positive engagement within the community.”
To protect the privacy and safety of children in care, the location of the match will not be shared in advance. Live commentary will be available on Maritime Radio, and updates will be shared across the council’s social media channels throughout the day on Saturday 16 May.
The event returns as a simple way to keep the conversation around fostering going within the community.
More events taking place during Foster Care Fortnight:
The match is just one part of a wider programme during Foster Care Fortnight. Over the two weeks, the council is hosting pop-up stalls and an online event to raise awareness and encourage more people to consider fostering on:
- Tuesday 12 May 3:30pm to 5:30pm, The Etham Centre 2 Archery Road, SE9 1HA
- Wednesday 13 May 3:30pm to 5:30pm, The Greenwich Centre, 12 Lambarde Square SE10 9GB
- Thursday 14 May, 11am to 12noon, Glyndon Community Centre, 75 Raglan Road SE18 7LB
- Monday 18 May 12noon to 2pm, Oxleas Woods Crown Woods Lane SE18 3JA
- Tuesday 19 May, 6pm to 7:30pm, Online, Fostering Information Event Microsoft Teams meeting Join here Meeting ID: 345 309 428 227 32 Passcode: yy9bp3GK
- Wednesday 20 May, 3:30pm to 5:30pm, Woolwich Waves, 49 Woolwich New Road SE18 6EU
Thinking of fostering?
When you foster with Royal Greenwich we are with you every step of the way. You will have financial support, a dedicated social worker, ongoing training and networks of other foster carers nearby who can share experience and advice. Carers also benefit from access to wellbeing groups and social events.
If you would like to learn more about becoming a foster carer call 0800 052 1449 or email fostering-recruitment@royalgreenwich.gov.uk
A member from our experienced fostering team will be in touch within one working day.