'We are in the people business': Fair Ways wings award for RiiSE Trauma-based Practice Programme

Unflinching commitment to improve the lives of children in care has been recognised as a city-based charity scoops a well-deserved award.

The team at Fair Ways are raising a glass after taking home an award for its innovative trauma-based programme.

The charity, which is an official partner with Portsmouth City Council, was established in 2002 and provides foster care, residential children’s homes, crisis care and specialist education.

The number of foster carers across the country has fallen by 10 per cent since 2021, with financial pressures, limited space, burnout and common misconceptions among the factors behind the decline.

In Portsmouth, there were approximately 232 fostering households as of March 2025, all working alongside the city council's dedicated fostering service, Foster Portsmouth.

Against this concerning backdrop, The News launched its ‘Fostering a Better Future’ campaign in August, aiming to raise awareness and encourage more people to consider becoming foster carers.

The campaign has seen The News join forces with Foster Portsmouth and Fair Ways, two organisations working to ensure children in need have access to safe, stable and supportive homes.

Despite the pressures of onboarding more foster parents, Fair Ways has continued working round the clock to ensure the children have access to safe and loving homes.

As a result of this, the charity’s RiiSE Trauma-based Practice Programme has won the Biggest Impact (Team) award at the National Children and Young People Awards on October 22, 2026.

Wayne Okell MBE, director of talent and performance at Fair Ways, said: “At Fair Ways, we are in the people business, and we are uncompromising in our commitment to putting people first.

“Winning the CYP Biggest Impact Award is recognition for more than a programme; it recognises a movement of people choosing to create hope, safety and belonging for children, young people and families who have often experienced trauma, adversity and uncertainty.”

This award recognises how the Fair Ways team has positively transformed the lives of vulnerable children and families we support through creative, compassionate and impactful practice.

Riise supports Fair Ways team members to develop a deeper understanding of trauma-informed practice, equipping them with the knowledge and confidence to build stronger relationships and improve outcomes for children and young people.

Through training, consultation and ongoing support, the programme continues to influence practice across all our services, ensuring trauma-informed approaches remain at the centre of decision-making and care.