Posted on Monday 17th March 2025
Alan and Mark at last year’s awards
People across Staffordshire are being invited to nominate foster carers, special guardians and supported lodgings hosts for a special award.
The Staffordshire Fostering Star Awards, now in their second year, recognise local people who care for the most vulnerable children and young people.
Awards are open to those who work with Staffordshire County Council. There are seven award categories this year, including Rising Star, Inspirational Foster Carer, Inspirational Special Guardian, Making a difference in the Fostering Community, Making a difference in the Special Guardian Community, Making a difference in the Supported Lodgings Community and the Above and Beyond award.
Foster carer Alan Hudson who won 2 awards last year, said
“Last year I was really humbled and shocked to win not one but two awards.
“I’m really proud to be part of Staffordshire’s Foster care community, and if I can make a difference to local children and their future that in itself is reward enough for me.”
Mark Sutton, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People at Staffordshire County Council, said:
“Our Fostering Star Awards give us a great opportunity to celebrate and thank the carers who do a wonderful job, always going that extra mile for the children they look after.
“The awards were a huge success last year and we want to build on that this year. So if you know a brilliant carer, then please get them nominated”.
This year’s awards are also running alongside a major recruitment campaign to encourage more people to become foster carers as part of national foster care fortnight.
Nominating someone is quick and easy and can be done here. The closing date for nominations is Friday 21 March.
Finalists will be invited to a special awards ceremony on 15 May.