Oldham Council rolled out the red carpet for its incredible foster carers at the 2024 Fostering Awards night, celebrating an awe-inspiring total of 175 years of fostering experience, just as the borough marks its own 175th anniversary. The event showcased the tireless dedication of those who have opened their homes to some of Oldham’s most vulnerable children, providing not just a roof over their heads but a chance for a better future.
The celebration saw 14 foster carers receive special awards for their commitment to helping young people.
Youth Mayor Issac Quinn gave out the awards at a special ceremony which brought together dedicated foster carers, staff and service leads, Cabinet member for Children and Young People, Cllr Shaid Mushtaq, and the Leader of Oldham Council, Cllr Arooj Shah.
Three foster carers were honoured for five years of service, six for 10 years, three for 15 years, one for 20 years, and one dedicated pair received an outstanding award for 35 years of fostering.
In addition, Kinship carers were celebrated for their vital role in fostering, highlighting the importance of family and community support. Kinship carers are relatives or close friends who step in during crises to care for children when their parents are unable to.
Cllr Arooj Shah, Leader of Oldham Council, highlighted the extraordinary efforts of the borough’s foster carers: “Our foster carers are the backbone of our community. The love, stability, and support they offer is life changing for the children they care for.
“As we celebrate 175 years of Oldham being a borough, it is fitting that we also acknowledge the 175 years of combined fostering experience that have shaped the lives of so many young people, but we need more heroes like these.
“We urge anyone who is considering fostering to come forward and join this incredible group of people.”
