Herefordshire Council celebrates foster carers

Herefordshire Council celebrated the invaluable work of foster carers at its Foster Carer Forum, held twice a year, on January 21, at Hedley Lodge, Belmont Abbey.

More than 100 people attended to discuss the future of foster care in Herefordshire, learn of new training opportunities and share their own experiences of fostering.

Sue Fiennes, Herefordshire’s Director of Children’s Services opened the Forum.

Councillor Don Rule, Cabinet member (Children’s Services), presented long service awards to fourteen foster carers, who, between them, have fostered over 250 children for the Council.

Councillor Rule told the forum that he felt particular affinity with foster carers and foster children, as he shared his positive experiences as an evacuated child during the Second World War.

Rebecca Plato, Fostering Manager, said: “The Foster Carer Forum is a great opportunity to celebrate the invaluable work done by Herefordshire foster carers.

“It also gives everyone the chance to share with a wider audience the real life experiences of fostering, which are both moving and inspiring.

“It is vital that, as well as recognising the amazing contribution that foster carers have made in the past, we look to new ways to involve the community in the rewards of fostering in the future,” she added.

If you would like any information on fostering in Herefordshire, please do not hesitate to call the Children’s Resource Team on 01432 262830.