Diagrama Fostering Partners with Dartford FC Youth Academy

by | Oct 4, 2025 | Dartford News

Diagrama Fostering, a not-for-profit fostering agency dedicated to supporting vulnerable children and young people across Kent and the South East, is proud to announce a new partnership with Dartford FC Youth Academy, part of Dartford Football Club.

Dartford FC Youth Academy based at Princes Park in Dartford, is at the heart of the local community and shares Diagrama’s commitment to nurturing young people and helping them thrive. The new collaboration will help raise awareness of the need for more foster carers in the region, while supporting opportunities for children to grow through sport, teamwork, and mentorship.

As part of the partnership, Diagrama Fostering has provided new away kit for the academy and winter coats for the academy coaches. The partnership represents a shared commitment to help children and young people thrive through care, support, and opportunity, both on the football field and at home.

Kate Patel, Head of Fostering and Adoption at Diagrama Foundation said: “We’re very proud to support local grassroots football in Kent. Both Dartford FC Youth Academy and Diagrama Fostering believe in helping children grow with confidence and feel part of a supportive community. There is currently a national shortage of foster carers, and we hope this partnership not only supports local sport but also raises awareness about the difference fostering can make in a child’s life.”

Russ Searle, Head of the Dartford Youth Academy, said: “We’re delighted to partner with Diagrama Fostering. Their support means a great deal to our players and their families. It’s fantastic to work alongside an organisation whose values align so closely with our own; encouraging growth, inclusion, and opportunity for every child.”

The need for foster carers in Kent is urgent. Diagrama Fostering provides full training, ongoing support, and generous allowances to individuals and families who can offer a stable, loving home. Whether you are single, a couple, working or retired, fostering can change lives both for the children and for the carers.

To find out more join a free Diagrama Fostering online information event: www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/free-online-information-session-about-fostering-with-diagrama-tickets-1259287686369?aff=oddtdtcreator 

Early work begins on the Lower Thames Crossing

The early work to prepare parts of Essex and Kent for construction of National Highways’ Lower Thames Crossing is now underway. Before the major construction and tunnelling begins in 2028, work will be carried out to protect the area’s utility supplies, heritage, and...

Dartford launches bid to become the UK’s first Town of Culture

Dartford has officially entered the race to become the UK’s first Town of Culture, confirming its intention to submit an Expression of Interest by 31 March in the new national competition launched by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS). The Town of...

Air Ambulance Charity Kent Surrey Sussex (KSS) celebrates the women behind lifesaving charity

Air Ambulance Charity Kent Surrey Sussex (KSS) is proud to mark International Women’s Day 2026 by celebrating the remarkable contribution of women across our lifesaving service. This year’s global theme, ‘Give to Gain’, which encourages a mindset of generosity...

Charity brings family more time with their beloved retired police dog

A charity that helps retired police dogs access the best in veterinary care has covered the cost of vital surgery for a Labrador who worked as a search and detection dog with Kent Police. Retired police dog (RPD) Max worked as a passive drugs detection dog with...

CINDERELLA – PANTO MAGIC RETURNS TO THE ORCHARD THEATRE THIS CHRISTMAS

The countdown is on to the biggest ball of the year, and you’re all invited! This festive season, the curtain will rise at the newly refurbished Orchard Theatre welcoming audiences back with everyone’s favourite rags to riches tale with the spectacular family...

Railway through Dartford reopens for Southeastern and Thameslink passengers following major half-term upgrade

£10m of work completed on time with improvements to several stations so that trains can resume. The South Eastern Railway has successfully reopened the railway through Dartford after completing a significant upgrade programme carried out over the February half-term,...

DARTFORD FC WOMEN | CLASS OF 2025-26 | MEET HARRIET KWOK

Dartford took on Brentwood Town at the end of January. Chris Palmer spoke to Harriet Hiu Ching Kwok, who featured in the matchday programme for that fixture. For those who missed it, here is the article: This is Harriet Hiu Ching Kwok's first season with the Dartford...

DARTFORD FC | CLASS OF 2025-26 | MEET DENZELLE OLOPADE

Dartford took on Brentwood Town at the end of January. Chris Palmer spoke to Denzelle Olopade, who featured in the matchday programme for that fixture. For those who missed it, here is the article: This is Denzelle Olopade's second campaign at Princes Park, and the...

Love is best shared at ASK Italian this February

ASK Italian is celebrating Valentine’s Day and Galentine’s Day with a new set menu featuring limited edition sharing specials, designed for generous, memorable moments around the table this February. Available now until 15th February,...

CREW CLOTHING OPENS NEW STORE AT BLUEWATER

THE PREMIUM BRITISH LIFESTYLE BRAND OPENS AT KENT’S PREMIER SHOPPING DESTINATION Premium British lifestyle brand Crew Clothing is delighted to announce the opening of its brand-new store at Bluewater, the premier shopping destination in Kent. Opening on 26th February,...