A cup of coffee could be the start of a life-changing conversation.
That’s the hope behind ‘Coffee to Foster,’ a new campaign launched in Brighton by Blue Sky Fostering and a network of independent coffee shops.
The initiative aims to raise awareness about the need for foster carers by reaching people in their everyday routines.
More than 50,000 branded coffee sleeves have been distributed to cafés across the city, each carrying a message about fostering and encouraging people to learn more.
Jane Shearer (left) has been fostering for 14 years(Image: Blue Sky Fostering)
Bryony Day, campaign organiser, said: “It’s not just about finding new foster carers. It’s about starting conversations.
“When more people understand what fostering really involves, communities become stronger, young people feel supported, and those who may have considered fostering in the past might finally take that step.”
For Jane Shearer, who has been fostering for 14 years, the campaign is an opportunity to correct common misconceptions about fostering.
Jane said: “People sometimes think fostering is full of drama – fire starters, thieves, kids in constant crisis – because that’s what they see on TV. But most of the time it’s just life.
“You make the school run, you worry about homework, you cheer from the sidelines at rugby matches.
“And in that normality, young people start to thrive.”
She shared the story of a boy who had been turned away by other families before coming to live with her.
Jane said: “He’s been with us for nine and a half years now.
“He’s grown into this wonderful human being – rugby three times a week, army cadets, great friends.
“All he needed was a chance to be that person.”
A total of 39 central Brighton cafés have joined the campaign, seeing it as a meaningful way to support both local families and the wider community.
Noah Granville, supervisor at Iydea Vegetarian Kitchen, in Kensington Gardens, said: “We serve hundreds of coffees a day at Iydea.
“If just one sleeve sparks someone to think about fostering, that’s a win for the community.”
Rhian Jenkins, owner of Hearth Café & Garden, in Portland Road, Hove, said: “Our customers love the idea.
“It’s a small gesture from us, but it could lead to a huge change in a child’s life.”
