Awards pay tribute to dedication of local authority foster carers

During Foster Care Fortnight, Bridgend County Borough Council’s fostering team held their inaugural ‘Fostering Recognition Awards’ ceremony at The Atlantic Hotel in Porthcawl. 

Local authority foster carers were joined by the fostering team and senior officers from the council to celebrate the hard work and commitment of the county borough’s amazing foster caring community.

During the event, foster carers and connected persons carers were presented with long-service certificates, recognising how many years Bridgend’s local authority fostering cohort have been providing quality care for children across the county borough.

Attendees were treated to a celebratory meal, and the entertainment was provided by singer Gareth Taylor and Maesteg Male Voice Choir, whilst Toby the Foster Bear mascot arrived for photo opportunities.

Council Leader, Councillor Huw David, and Deputy Leader, and Cabinet Member for Social Services and Health, Councillor Jane Gebbie attended the awards to present to some very deserved winners, who were recognised for their commitment to fostering. 

We are extremely grateful to you all for offering a happy and stable environment for our care experienced children and young people. Thanks to your ongoing dedication and nurturing, you provide the best experience for the children you foster, with the opportunity to maintain links with their local networks, family, friends, and communities.

Providing a family environment where each young person can learn, thrive, and develop to their full potential is a challenge you have all risen to – so on behalf of the council, and myself I want to say a huge ‘Thank you to you all!

Cllr Jane Gebbie, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Social Services and Health

Among those honoured were:

Sharon and Kerry for the ‘Teenage Whisperer Award’

This award captures foster carers who care and support our most troubled teens. Approaching them with a blend of down-to-earth honesty, straight-talk discipline, and pure intentions, helping teenagers break out of negative behaviour cycles so that they can truly flourish.

Lorraine and John (connected persons) and Gwen (general) for the ‘Mary Poppins Award’ symbolising the magic that lies behind everyday life and how ready and prepared this foster carer is for anything!

‘Above and Beyond’ award

Above and beyond is a phrase shortened from the phrase above and beyond the call of duty, referring to heroic behaviour during a military operation. Recognising the exceptional support they provide to the children in their care, giving extra effort, especially in a way that exceeds expectations. 

‘Connected Persons Commitment’ Award - representing the commitment of family members, to ensure that children remain within their family system. Connected person’s care allows children to stay in their family unit, which keeps everything as familiar as possible for them.

Retirement Awards:

Val and Rob (44 years)

Sharon and Jeff (37 years)

Glynis (17 years)

This award recognises foster carers commitment and dedication to the service and the support they have provided to children during their long fostering career.

Lynne, Cath and James, and Chris and Jerry for the ‘Councillor Award’

Supervising Social Workers nominated foster carers they considered deserved an award. The final three were selected by the Councillor.

Vicky and Paul for the ‘Clive Richards Award’

A commemoration award of a valued liaison carer, who is highly thought of across the fostering service.

Foster Carer, Theresa Stenner who attended the ceremony, said: “What an honour to be part of today, very emotional but beautiful finish to the day. Thank you, Bridgend Council!”

If you’ve been inspired by our award-winning foster carers, and are wondering whether fostering could be for you, please visit: https://bridgend.fosterwales.gov.wales/