Awards to recognise city’s dedicated foster carers

Foster carers in Southampton who have dedicated decades of their lives to looking after vulnerable children in the city have been recognised for their work

Southampton City Council held a Fostering Celebration Evening recently to recognise all its foster carers in the city and to celebrate those who have been caring for children for a significant period of time, including one person who has been providing a safe and loving home to children for over 40 years as a foster carer.

The Celebration Evening was held virtually with more than 65 households attending remotely. Normally held as an in-person gala celebration, the event is organised by the council to recognise the invaluable contribution that all foster carers make to the lives of children in the city..

69 foster carers received long service awards for periods ranging from between 5 years and 40 years. They all received a certificate, and depending on their length of service, were given a bouquet of flowers and plaque or vase that was hand-delivered by their supervising social worker..

Among those who addressed the foster carers at the event and thanked them for their work was Councillor Peter Baillie, Cabinet Member for Children’s Social Care. He said:.

“Our foster carers have had made a hugely positive contribution to the lives of children in the city. I was pleased to be able to thank them for their continuing dedication and efforts, and for so often going the extra mile to keep children safe and comfortable in sometimes challenging circumstances. We urgently need more foster carers, and I’d encourage anyone who is interested in following their inspirational example to contact our friendly team.”.

Southampton City Council offers all foster carers a generous allowance, comprehensive training and 24/7 help and advice. To find out more about fostering and to register your interest, visit Southampton City Council's fostering website or contact the fostering team on 0800 5 19 18 18.