A fostering film coproduced by 14 local authorities including the City of Wolverhampton Council has been shortlisted for a national TV award.

Truth Be Told: A Film about Fostering, produced by Spark Media, has been recognised in the Promotional Content category of the West Midlands Region Royal Television Awards.

The film launched in March 2019 and is a collaborative project by 14 local authorities across the Midlands looking at the true stories of 2 sets of children and their foster carers.  

It briefly but honestly captures the highs and lows of fostering; life with children and young people is always full of challenges, but for those who have been through difficult life situations, the complexities and needs can be even more intense.
 
The film explores the world of teenager Carl and his carer, and that of 2 young sisters, Toni and Leah, who are cared for by a same sex couple. 

This small snapshot into their lives gives a hint of their history and the reality of being a foster carer. But more importantly it looks at the great connection, personal progress and depth of love that can come when supporting someone through adversity. The fostering story may begin with a hello, but that’s just the beginning of a rich, complex and ultimately rewarding journey.
 
Emma Bennett, the City of Wolverhampton Council’s Director of Children’s Services, said: “I’m really proud that our film has been nominated for this award; it shows that we’re able to hold our own on the national stage. 
 
“By working together and coproducing this film and other related projects we reach a wider audience and share our important message about the value of fostering. 
 
“I wish the team good luck for the awards, but more importantly hope that our film inspires people to visit Fostering for Wolverhampton and consider a career fostering with us.”
 
This is the third film that the collective fostering services have produced to promote fostering and find new carers. While it features actors, the stories are those of real foster carers. 
 
The winners will be announced at the awards ceremony in Birmingham on Friday (29 November). 
 
To view the film and find out more about becoming a foster carer for Wolverhampton, please visit Fostering for Wolverhampton or call 01902 551133.