The Fostering Network has around 100 staff across the UK and we have offices in Belfast, Cardiff, Glasgow and London.
The Fostering Network is led by a senior leadership team and a board of trustees, with experience across social care, the third sector, business and finance.
Chief executive – Sarah Thomas
Sarah was appointed chief executive in May 2023, following a successful tenure as our director for Wales. Prior to joining The Fostering Network, Sarah was the Service Manager at AFA Cymru (formally BAAF Cymru) from 2019 - 2021. A qualified social worker, Sarah’s career has spanned a range of roles supporting vulnerable children and families in Wales, including many within fostering teams where had the privilege of working closely with some incredible fostering families.
Senior Leadership Team
- Chief executive - Sarah Thomas
- Director of engagement and influence - Kathleen Toner
- Director of finance and resources - Geoff Wilson
The board of trustees
The Fostering Network – like all charities – is governed by a board of trustees, which determines the strategic direction of the organisation. The trustees play an essential part in the governance and therefore the success of The Fostering Network. Meet our trustees.
Our president
Our president, Libby Thornhill, and vice president, represent The Fostering Network at our high profile events, membership conferences and stakeholder meetings, with the aim of raising the profile of fostering and ensuring young people in care have a positive experience of family life and the best possible start to adulthood. Meet our president and vice president.
