Celebration time for foster families
TWENTY five families who together have devoted a phenomenal 278 years to fostering children were celebrated at an annual awards evening.
The celebration event was a fun-filled occasion for all the families, with lots of activities for children, and also created opportunities for new foster carers to make links with others and form networks.
Among the carers celebrated were Irene and Barry Whitehead, who began fostering 30 years ago.
Irene said: “We are feeling very proud of our 30 years in fostering and helping so many children during that time, because to us every child matters. We are still in touch with many of the children that have come through our door. Some still visit on a regular basis and we are thrilled to say that they are very much part of our family. We feel very rewarded and privileged to play such a huge part in their lives. We are so happy this is what we decided to do 30 years ago.”
Also recognised were a further 11 families celebrated for five years’ service, seven for 10 years, two for 15 years and three for 20 years.
The families were given
●●Irene and Barry Whitehead, with their grandson and, from left, Coun Rachel Massey, Mayoress of Rochdale Lynn Sheerin, Mayor of Rochdale Coun Billy Sheerin and Gail Hopper, director of children’s services their awards by the Mayor of Rochdale, Councillor Billy Sheerin, Gail Hopper, director of children’s service at the council, and Councillor Rachel Massey.
Coun Massey, assistant portfolio holder for children’s services at Rochdale Council, said: “I am in awe of their unwavering dedication. They have all brought so much happiness and hope to our children and young people, for which we are extremely grateful. We work hard to support them and thank them for their commitment.”
If you would like to become a foster carer, call 0300 303 1000 or email enquire@fosteringforrochdale.co.uk
Information about what fostering involves, the support available and case studies from current carers can be found at rochdale. gov.uk/fostering