Paignton Zoo hosts 300 foster families for celebration day

Paignton Zoo welcomed over 300 foster families as part of a region-wide celebration day organised by Fostering South West.

The event, which saw similar gatherings at the zoo’s sister site - Newquay Zoo - and other wildlife attractions across the region, brought together foster carers and children for a day of appreciation, connection and wildlife discovery. 

Steph Dawson, Business Development Manager for Wild Planet Trust – the parent charity of both Paignton and Newquay zoos –  said: "As a community resource committed to creating meaningful experiences, Paignton Zoo was honoured to collaborate with Fostering South West for this important celebration. 

"Our grounds provide the perfect setting for families to connect, celebrate achievements, and create lasting memories together – something that wouldn't be possible without community-focused spaces like ours." 

The day featured special activities throughout the zoo, giving foster families the opportunity to enjoy the zoo’s animals while strengthening their support networks with other fostering households. Paignton Zoo's education team provided interactive sessions, while their keepers offered special talks highlighting animal families and care. 

A highlight of the day was the presence of the popular Mood Bears, owned by global toy company TOMY. Children were delighted to meet the colourful characters, including the special pairing of the zoo’s popular Sayang the Tiger character with the Hope Mood Bear. 

Steph said: "The partnership with TOMY's Mood Bears added another wonderful dimension to the day. We're particularly grateful for their contribution in creating a bespoke Hope Bear connection with our beloved Sayang, which helped children engage with important conversations about emotions and conservation." 

This celebration day forms part of Fostering South West's wider initiative to recruit and support foster carers across the region. Launched in April 2024, the hub unites fostering expertise across 15 councils and acts as a first point of contact for those interested in fostering.  

Carrie Worth, Fostering South West Team Manager, said: "The support from each of the venues has been wonderful in helping to organise and support fostering families to have such a fun and enjoyable day out. We’ve seen foster carers and children making new connections, forging of new friendships and children and adults alike having lots of fun.”