FOSTER carers were celebrated for “vital role” in Wokingham community as part of Foster Care Fortnight.

Foster Communities was the theme of this year's Foster Care Fortnight, an annual campaign from The Fostering Network to share “the commitment, passion and dedication of foster carers”.

Last month, foster carers attended The Festival of Blossom at Cliveden National Trust and took part in yoga and kimono making.

Sian, a new foster carer, said: “The support and the community around being a foster carer, the support I get from other foster carers, I just feel like I’m part of a wonderful community now, which I wasn’t expecting.  

"I feel I’ve got 40 new fantastic friends that are all foster carers themselves and support from supervising social workers.”

The biggest event in the annual fostering calendar took place on Friday, with foster carers invited to a celebration and thank you lunch at Wokingham Cricket Club. 

It was attended by newly elected Mayor Councillor Beth Rowland, and all foster carers were given a small gift to thank them for the work they do. 

Executive member for children’s services, councillor Prue Bray, said: “Foster carers play a vital role in our communities by providing a safe space for children to live, learn and grow. While we celebrate the work our foster carers do all year round, it is great to have this opportunity during Foster Care Fortnight to highlight once again the irreplaceable role they take.

“We would love to have you join our thriving foster care community, so please do get in touch with our team at fostering@wokingham.gov.uk to find out more.”

Wokingham Borough Council offer foster carers support in various ways including council tax exemption, training opportunities, weekly funding and 24-hour support lines. 

For more information visit fostering.wokingham.gov.uk