Stockport recently played host to an inspiring evening of celebration as more than 50 foster carers gathered for The Fostering Team’s second annual Foscars Awards. The event, designed to shine a spotlight on the incredible dedication and compassion of foster carers, recognised their pivotal role in shaping the lives of children and young people.

The Foscars Awards, hosted at Edgley Park, celebrated a range of achievements, including long service awards, outstanding achievement awards, resilience awards, engagement awards, and long-term placement awards. Each category highlighted the unique qualities and contributions of foster carers who provide stability, guidance, and love to children and teenagers during some of the most challenging times in their lives.

Anthony Turner, Registered Manager of The Fostering Team, praised the unwavering commitment of foster carers, saying:
“Events like these are powerful reminders of the extraordinary qualities our foster carers bring to their role. Fostering isn’t easy; it requires immense dedication, resilience, and a heart full of compassion. It’s a privilege to honour their daily efforts, which quite literally transform lives. This event is about celebrating them and ensuring they feel the appreciation they so richly deserve.”

The celebration comes amid concerns over a national decline in foster families, as highlighted by recent OFSTED reports. Across England, the number of fostering households has continued to decrease over the past year, underscoring the vital need for more individuals and families to step forward and provide stable, loving homes for children in care. Against this backdrop, the Foscars Awards serve as both a heartfelt thank-you to existing carers and an inspiring call to action for others to consider fostering.

The evening not only offered a chance to recognise these everyday heroes but also to bring together the fostering community, creating an atmosphere of support and camaraderie. Attendees enjoyed a memorable event filled with gratitude, inspiration, and shared commitment to improving the lives of young people.

The Fostering Team extends its deepest appreciation to all its foster carers, whose tireless work ensures children feel safe, supported, and valued. For anyone interested in learning more about fostering and the difference they can make, further information is available on The Fostering Team’s website.