Honoring the Heroes of Fostering in Hertfordshire
Every year, Hertfordshire celebrates the remarkable individuals who dedicate their lives to fostering. This year’s event was a heartfelt tribute to the compassion, resilience, and unwavering support provided by foster carers across the county. The ceremony brought together over 80 foster carers, each playing a vital role in ensuring that children have safe, loving environments to grow and thrive.
The celebration recognized not only the long-term commitment of many foster carers but also their exceptional contributions in various areas of fostering. Among the most prestigious honors was the Outstanding Fostering Award, which celebrates those who demonstrate extraordinary dedication and commitment. This year, the award was presented to Joan and Reg East, a couple from Hemel Hempstead who have been fostering for Hertfordshire County Council for more than four decades.
Their journey as foster carers has been nothing short of inspiring. Their story was previously highlighted in the Hemel Gazette in January 2024, and they were also honored with a long service award. Unfortunately, Joan recently passed away, making this recognition even more meaningful and bittersweet. Her legacy, alongside Reg’s, continues to serve as a powerful reminder of the impact that foster carers can have on the lives of children.
Reg and Joan’s long service highlights an urgent need: more foster carers are required in the county. With approximately 1,000 children currently in care, the demand for supportive and stable homes is greater than ever. The event offered a valuable opportunity for Herts County Council’s new Executive Member for Children’s Services, Councillor Anthony Rowlands, to connect with foster carers and express his gratitude for their work.
Cllr Rowlands emphasized the challenges that young people face today, stating, “For young people growing up, in many ways it’s never been as hard.” He noted the pressures that children encounter and stressed the importance of providing them with a secure, loving home environment. “That’s why I’m particularly grateful to foster carers for all the work they do,” he said. “It’s so important that those who might be thinking about foster care come forward and contact the council.”
In addition to the Outstanding Fostering Award, several other foster carers were recognized for their outstanding contributions:
- Jackie for her services to recruitment
- Liz and Martyn for their services to education
- Roz and Dave for their services to Children Looked After
- Sam and Mark for their services to Care Leavers
- Sue and Tony for their services to diversity and inclusion
- Barbara and Mark for their services to Family Safeguarding
- Lucy received the Kinship award
- Bev received the Shared Care award
- Rona for her services to Supported Lodgings
- Carli for her services to Adoption
- Ross and Ashley were honored with a new award for their services to early permanence
These awards reflect the diverse roles that foster carers play in supporting children and families. Beyond the recognition, the council offers generous pay and allowances, along with comprehensive training and 24/7 support to ensure that foster carers feel valued and equipped for their important work.
As the community continues to celebrate the efforts of these dedicated individuals, the message remains clear: every child deserves a safe and nurturing home, and the need for foster carers has never been greater.
