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Foster Carers Long Service Awards 2015

Published: 07/12/2015

Thirty-nine foster carers have been honoured by Flintshire County Council for reaching a milestone in fostering. From five years to 25 years, awards were presented by Craig Macleod, Senior Manager Social Services at an award ceremony held at Northop Hall County House hotel on Friday 27th November. Caroline and Rob Carding were one of the 25 carers receiving their five year award: “We love it, it’s hard work but it’s rewarding. We’ve fostered six children and it’s nice to feel that we’ve made a difference. When you see a child when they first come to you and you watch them progress and change, they grow in confidence and self-esteem. It’s the best thing we ever did and we’ve never looked back.” Eight carers received their ten year award, three received a 15 year award and one received 20 year award. Alice and Dave Oldfield received their award for 25 years of fostering. They received an MBE last year for their service to fostering. They have fostered over 125 children since 1989 and still keep in touch with some. “It’s been wonderful to receive this award. The best moments are when you see the children grown up, they’ve got a job and doing well. Many of the children still keep in touch and they come back to visit us with their own children. One young man we fostered said to me recently ‘I wouldn’t be who I am without you, I’ll never forget you’ ” said Alice. “It’s not all smooth, but the difficult times are few and the good moments make up for it. Some of the older children have already made up their mind about their lives but when you can encourage them to take a new path, it’s so rewarding.” added Dave Craig Macleod thanked the foster carers on behalf of Flintshire County Council and the children they care for “Thank you for your commitment to children and young people, opening your doors and making a difference. For being there when children need you and making them feel safe and happy. For sharing your life, your family and friends, putting your heart and soul into it, seeing through the ups and downs, for being there and showing you care” For more information on becoming a foster carer, contact Flintshire Fostering Service on 01352 702190 or visit www.flintshirefostering.org.uk. Captions: 1. Foster carer long service awards Front: Alice & Dave Oldfield receiving their 25 award 2. Front: Caroline & Rob Carding (5 years) and Glen & Lesley Cowan (5 years) Back: Anita & Peter Butler (15 years) 3. Alice and Dave Oldfield receiving their 25 year award