Heli Gilham and Neen – Carer of the Year nomination
Heli Gilham and Neen – Carer of the Year nomination
Heli Gilham and her partner were already adoptive parents when they become foster carers four years ago. They have since offered a long-term foster home to two children and have gone on to adopt a second child.
The couple, from Stoke-on-Trent, have been nominated in the Carer of the Year category of the Your Heroes Awards by Marie Plant, Fostering Recruitment and Engagement Officer at Stoke-on-Trent City Council.
Marie said: “Heli and Neen offer a child the stability, security and nurturing care he needs at such an important early stage in his life. From the moment he came into their care, they have provided a calm, loving, and consistent home, enabling him to feel safe, settled and truly valued.
“As a result, he is fully settled and thriving, making progress across all areas of his development. He has integrated beautifully into family life and has formed strong, positive relationships with Heli and Neen’s own children,.
“Both have played a vital role in welcoming the child into their home, showing kindness, patience and warmth. It is clear that all three children get along well, creating a harmonious and supportive family environment that allows him to flourish.
“Their willingness to share their parents and their family life has been instrumental in helping him have a sense of belonging. His progress has been remarkable and he has surpassed expectations in how well he is developing emotionally, socially and practically while in Heli and Neen’s care.
“He continues to surprise everyone involved with his resilience, confidence and ability to form secure attachments. This speaks volumes about the quality of care, guidance and reassurance Heli and Neen consistently provide.
“As he prepares to move on to his adoptive family, the foundations Heli and Neen have helped him build will be invaluable for his future. The love, stability and nurture they have offered have equipped him with the emotional security and confidence needed to transition successfully into the next chapter of his life.
“Heli and Neen are to be highly praised for the commitment, compassion and generosity they have shown. Their collective role has made a profound and lasting difference to the young person’s early experiences and the positive impact of their care will continue far beyond his time with them.”
Heli said she felt surprised but happy to have been nominated for a Your Heroes Award.
She said: “I think it’s lovely and thoughtful. I wouldn’t have even thought we would be nominated. I’m really quite touched by it. It’s a really lovely compliment.”