Tom’s race with new foster carers
The release of ‘The Run’, produced by the award-winning team at ReelTwentyFive, has been announced and will premiere at the Everyman Cinema in Birmingham on 9 October 2025.
What began as a small, local initiative in the Midlands has now evolved into a major nationwide fostering campaign, with more than 90 local authority fostering services collaborating under the expert project management of CAN Digital. ‘The Run’ is set to be the most ambitious and far-reaching jointly funded fostering film project to date.
The film tells the story of Tom, an 11-year-old boy whose instinct to run takes on many meanings: running away from danger, from a challenging home life, and sometimes simply running to get to school in time for breakfast because he’s hungry. Despite the many challenges he faces before entering foster care – even lacking something as basic as a PE kit – Tom discovers he has a natural talent for running.
The story builds to a powerful finale as Tom is supported and encouraged to channel his amazing talents and compete in an athletics tournament, running in a stadium cheered on by his foster family. This story is not simply about the race; this is one of understanding the journey and the difference the right support can nurture , it’s a moment of belonging, resilience, and hope.
‘The Run’ captures the heart of what fostering is truly about – providing safety, belief and opportunity for children who deserve the chance to thrive. Like Tom, every child needs someone in their corner, cheering them on. We are incredibly proud to be part of this national collaboration, shining a spotlight on the powerful difference that foster carers can make, fostering truly changes lives” said Nicola Brangam, Head of Fostering at Lincolnshire County Council
The film’s project director Rachel Brown explains;
“This whole project grew out of the constant struggle to recruit foster carers, when you have limited resources. By working as a group – which has grown from 12 to over 90 councils across the country – we’ve found a way to raise our voice and shout.
I say shout quite deliberately - because this is a national emergency. Make no mistake, children’s futures depend on having homes to give them a supportive, nurturing upbringing.
‘The Run’ won’t change things on its own, but we hope that everyone who sees it, will at least pause for thought, hopefully stepping forward to help our most vulnerable children and young people.”
If you feel inspired by Toms’ story and would like to know more about becoming a foster carer, join us at one of our upcoming online fostering information events.
Alternatively, if you feel ready to start your journey, click the button below.