Carer awards highlight invaluable contributions across Territory
MORE than 140 nominations were received for the Foster and Kinship Carer Excellence Awards, which have been held in eight locations across the Territory.
The awards highlight the important role and contribution that foster carers, support staff, young people and NGOs make to support vulnerable children in out-of-home care.
The ceremonies were held in Darwin, Katherine, Alice Springs, Tennant Creek, Nhulunbuy, Galiwin’ku, Groote Eylandt and Gove, throughout September.
For the first time in the event’s nine-year history, an additional category was included to acknowledge staff members from NGOs who play a vital role in supporting foster and kinship carers.
Data shows that almost 90 per cent of children and young people who are currently in care are Aboriginal.
The new out-of-home care model prioritises children being placed with family when it is safe to do so to give them the best chance for a bright future by being connected to culture, family and country.
Minister for Territory Families and Urban Housing, Kate Worden, said investing in children was investing in the future of the Territory. “We will always support and recognise the important role that foster and kinship carers play in our community and their dedication to supporting children who are most in need of a caring home,” she said.
“Thank you to all our foster and kinship carers throughout the Territory, your work in supporting vulnerable children is incredibly important in our community.”