Posted on Wednesday 29th May 2024
Foster Carer Alan Hudson with Clare Cartwright, Head of Service Children in Our Care and Care Leavers at Staffordshire County Council
Staffordshire’s foster families were recognised during a special celebration for their work in providing loving homes for the county’s looked after children.
Carers and staff gathered for the county’s first Fostering Star Awards, organised by Staffordshire County Council’s Fostering Service.
Amongst the winners were Alan Hudson from Cannock who has been involved in fostering for 24 years. Alan won 2 awards, ‘Going Above and Beyond’ and ‘Making a Difference’.
Alan said:
“Being a foster carer is an amazing thing. Being part of a young person’s life and helping them to grow up and lead a fulfilling life is a great feeling.
“I’m thrilled to have won the two awards although it does feel a bit strange being rewarded for something you love doing. There’s a real community spirit in the Staffordshire fostering family and we’re always there to help each other. I would urge anyone thinking about becoming a foster carer just to go for it, you won’t look back.”
Nisha Gupta, Assistant Director for Children’s Social Care at Staffordshire County Council presented the awards and thanked carers for what they do.
Nisha said:
“Our awards are a really important event for us and give us the chance to recognise and thank Our army of carers for what they do.
“It was great to meet up with them, hear their stories and personally thank them. These families have such a positive impact on young people’s lives and without this support, many would not get a second chance at a happy life.
“We are always on the lookout for more foster families so I would encourage anyone who is considering fostering to get in touch with us.”
Carers were recognised in five categories with just over 100 nominations. The awards ceremony was held at Stafford Rugby Club in Stafford on Thursday 23 May.
Further details on fostering with Staffordshire County Council are available on the Foster for Staffordshire website, or by calling 0800 169 2061.
Photo 1: Foster Carer Alan Hudson with Clare Cartwright, Head of Service Children in Our Care and Care Leavers at Staffordshire County Council
Photo 2: Head of the Fostering Service Brian Johnson, with Foster Carers Elaine and Cliff Whiteley