A dedicated Scarborough couple are stepping up to run a new support hub to help foster families and vulnerable children along the Yorkshire Coast.
Foster families and children in care across Scarborough will receive enhanced support as a new centralised hub opens in the town.
Local couple Jayne and Tom Dockerty, who have transformed the lives of vulnerable young people for more than five years, are stepping up to run the facility. The couple say fostering has been one of the most rewarding experiences of their lives and are encouraging others to open their homes to children in care.
Their new facility will become the third Mockingbird hub in Scarborough and the fifth across North Yorkshire.
The Mockingbird Family Model, which originated in America, uses a central hub to empower families to support each other. Fostering North Yorkshire joined the national programme alongside twenty-two other fostering services in 2019. The initiative aims to improve the stability of fostering homes and strengthen relationships between carers, children, fostering services, and birth families.
Jayne Dockerty explained the real-world benefits of the new setup.
"The Mockingbird hub offers that extended family feeling. Children are able to build relationships with familiar families through activities, outings, sleepovers and social events. It creates a sense of belonging and helps young people find their voice and build confidence. We are true believers in a buddy system for people who are new to fostering or thinking about becoming foster carers. It can feel daunting at first, and having someone to talk to, a shoulder to lean on, or a reassuring phone call can make a huge difference."
The couple began their fostering journey during the Covid-19 pandemic. Since then, they have looked after six children, ranging from a two-day-old baby to a sixteen-year-old teenager. Alongside long-term fostering, they have provided short-term care, daycare, and sleepover support for numerous local families.
Over the years, the Scarborough pair have celebrated many special moments. Their proudest achievements include supporting a baby to safely return home to their parents and grandparents. The bond became so strong that Mrs Dockerty was later asked to become the child's godmother. They have also helped a teenager successfully transition to semi-independent living and supported a young boy on his journey to adoption.
Tom Dockerty shared his perspective on their fostering experiences.
"We love making a difference in children’s lives, But the truth is that they make such a rewarding and loving difference in ours."
The new Scarborough hub builds on the success of existing facilities in the seaside town, as well as those operating in Thirsk and Selby.
The couple are now using their leadership role to highlight a growing need for sleepover and respite carers for teenagers and their foster families.
Mrs Dockerty highlighted the current challenges facing the care system.
"There is a real shortage of sleepover opportunities for teenagers and their carers. These short breaks can provide valuable support for everyone involved. It's a chance to offer reassurance, share advice and remind teenagers and carers that they're not alone."
North Yorkshire Council’s executive member for children and families, Councillor Janet Sanderson, praised the couple's ongoing efforts.
"Dedicated foster parents like Jayne and Tom play a vital role in transforming the lives of children and young people in our care. Their dedication, compassion and commitment over the past five years have helped provide stability, encouragement and opportunities for children at some of the most challenging times in their lives."
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