Foster Care Awards In Wolverhampton

Last night we again attended the Awards ceremony of Fostering and adoption in Wolverhampton, a tribute to the dedication and professionalism of the city's foster carers who strive to ensure better lives for looked after children in our community.

Both Mary and I were once again bowled over by the care that foster carers show to others in our community. We honoured people who had given more than 20 years to the service fostering over 100 children! I always stand amazed at what selfless action Wulfrunians are capable of!

This was a magnificent event held at Dunstall Park Race Course. We are lucky in Wolverhampton as the Wolverhampton Foster Care Centre working in partnership with Wolverhampton Social services do a very good job in giving individuals support.

I suppose if there was one disappointment it is the fact that the Express and Star didn't cover the work and the individualism that was on display last night....but if they read this I do hope that they will contact the organisers. There is a tremendous tale of warmth and human kindness here on show in Wolverhampton. All of which is worthy of reporting in the nations largest and most read evening newspaper! That is my personal plea over!

It was as I have said a great evening, I thought the Penn Singers and the Gospel Choir from the Church of the Seventh Day Adventist added a lot to the evening....and I apologise for the crooning that I inflicted on everyone!

BEING A FOSTER CARER CAN SOMETIMES FEEL LIKE A THANKLESS TASK

The children themselves may be distressed and unhappy, ungrateful and often uncooperative. And although there are support services to give you help and guidance, you may have to deal with some difficult situations on your own.

The real reward is in knowing that you are helping a young person build a better life for themselves, by providing support at a time when they need it most.

If you have what it takes to cope with the stress and hard work, fostering can be one of the most rewarding experiences you will ever have in your lifetime.



FOSTERING OR ADOPTION?

Many people are not clear about the difference between fostering and adoption. If you and your family are prepared to share your home with a child or young person on an occasional, part-time or full-time basis - for varying lengths of time - then you are right to think about fostering.

If you feel that you would prefer to have a child of your own, with you as the permanent legal parent, then you should find out more about adoption. Wolverhampton Social Services can help you with adoption too.

Ask about adoption when you next talk to your contact person at Fostering in Wolverhampton, or call 0800 0730 189