On Thursday 4 December at 9am, Weymouth Esplanade was transformed into a stunning festive display of more than 470 handmade Christmas stockings – each one representing a child or young person in care in Dorset.

This powerful visual is part of Dorset Council’s Give the Greatest Gift campaign, which aims to raise awareness and inspire more people to start their fostering journey with Dorset Council.

The stockings were lovingly created by our local community – including foster carers, children in care, youth and community groups, and residents. You can find the display on Weymouth Esplanade, near the Jubilee Clock.

Cllr Clare Sutton, Dorset Council Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, Education and Skills said: “We’ve been overwhelmed by the response from our community. Every stocking tells a story of care and compassion, and together they send a clear message: every child deserves to feel safe and supported, not just at Christmas, but all year round. Our hope is that the display will spark conversation and encourage more people to consider fostering.”

Dorset Council foster carer, Chris Smart, said: “Christmas reminds us how important family and belonging are. If you’ve ever thought about fostering, now is the time to take that first step. You could change a child’s life – and yours – forever.”

Dorset Council would like to thank everyone who contributed to the display, including Coastal Nets for their generous donation of display netting – without this support, the community display wouldn’t have been possible.

Give the Greatest Gift and foster with Dorset Council
If you’ve ever thought about fostering, now is the perfect time to find out more. Visit www.fosterwithdorsetcouncil.com/christmas-campaign or call 01305 221000 for an informal chat.