Celebrating our fantastic foster carer family
They are the people who make Buckinghamshire Council’s amazing foster care family what it is, and last Friday night was their chance to shine and be celebrated, as the annual Fostering Awards were held.
Taking place every year, the Fostering Awards showcase the achievements and dedication of all Buckinghamshire Council foster carers and give the council the opportunity to say thank you to them for the work they do in looking after the children in our care.
This year’s event took place at Wycombe Wanderers Football Club on Friday 27 September. Awards are given out for a range of achievements including: Best Newcomer; Outstanding Contribution to Fostering; Respite and Short Breaks Carer of the Year; Family and Friends Foster Carer of the Year and the Willow Award which celebrates courage, determination and resilience and recognises a show of remarkable perseverance in the face of adversity.
Nominations for awards were made by social workers, foster carers, parents, carers and those linked to the fostering service. These were then assessed by a judging panel and the winners chosen. Winners on the night were:
- Family and Friends Foster Carer of the Year: Melissa Daniel and Ashleigh Doherty
- Best Newcomer: Megan Armstrong and Adam Abbott
- Respite and Short Breaks Carer of the Year: Kate Springett
- Willow Award: Julie Hill and Charlie Evans
- Outstanding Contribution to Fostering: Elizabeth and David Calver
A number of long service awards were also given out on the night:
- 5 years’ service: 21 carers (11 households)
- 10 years’ service: 8 carers (5 households)
- 15 years’ service: 4 carers (2 households)
Anita Cranmer, Buckinghamshire Council’s Cabinet Member for Children’s Services and Education said: “We truly care for, value and respect all our foster carers. They provide a safe haven where our children can thrive. We want to thank them and let them know that we recognise all that they do and value the difference they make to children’s lives.”
Being a foster carer is a big commitment, but it can also be incredibly rewarding. Buckinghamshire Council’s dedicated team will support you every step of the way. In addition to our annual recognition awards celebration, we offer 24/7 support, extensive training, highly competitive financial allowances and a unique perks and benefits package to our foster carers.
Anita continued: “With over 500 children in Buckinghamshire needing caring and supportive homes, we are looking for more local foster carers to ensure that children don't have to move far away from their family, friends and all that’s familiar. We’d love more people to join our welcoming community of foster carers in Buckinghamshire and benefit from all the support we offer throughout your fostering journey.
There are lots of ways to find out more about fostering with Buckinghamshire Council:
- Contact our friendly fostering team
- Book to attend one of our online information events
- Sign up to receive our fostering newsletter
More information can also be found on our website: www.buckinghamshire.gov.uk/fostering
