Julie and Ian – Carer of the Year nomination
Julie and Ian – Carer of the Year nomination
Siblings that arrived with a foster family at the age of four and nine years are still being supported by them despite now being in their 20s.
The eldest, now aged 25, has only recently moved out to their own home one mile away and has a good job after achieving a level six qualification.
The youngest, who is nearly 21 and still living with the foster parents, has achieved a qualification in joinery and is currently working for a national retailer.
Foster parents Julie and Ian, who prefer not to have their surname published, are hugely proud of their foster children.
Julie, from the Staffordshire Moorlands, said: “They have both done absolutely amazingly. They’ve been with us for more than 16 years now and it’s been our pleasure to have them in our home.”
Julie and Ian 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.
She said: “I would like to nominate Julie and Ian in recognition of their dedication, compassion and outstanding commitment to fostering. Julie and Ian began their fostering journey many years ago when they welcomed two children into their home. Those young people are now in their twenties and the positive impact that Julie and Ian have had on their lives is a testament to the loving, stable and nurturing environment they provide.
“Around 18 months ago, Julie and Ian made the decision to change their fostering preference to caring for children aged 0–2 years. Before making this change, they took the time to meet with professionals, seek advice and carefully consider how they could best support some of our youngest and most vulnerable children. Throughout this process they remained open, thoughtful and child-focused.
“Following the change in approval, a baby was placed with them. Julie and Ian wholeheartedly embraced this role, providing exceptional care, love and security during a crucial stage of the child’s life. Most recently, they have successfully supported the baby’s transition to their forever family. While such transitions can be emotionally challenging, Julie and Ian approached the process with professionalism, sensitivity and an unwavering focus on achieving the best outcome for the child.
“Since first discussing their change in preferences, they have maintained regular contact, seeking guidance when needed and always demonstrating a willingness to learn and develop. Their positive attitude, commitment to partnership working and dedication to the children in their care make them a pleasure to work alongside.
“Julie and Ian are a truly lovely couple whose kindness, resilience and commitment to fostering have made a lasting difference to the lives of children and families. They consistently go above and beyond and I believe they are thoroughly deserving of recognition through a Heroes nomination. Their contribution exemplifies the very best of fostering and the profound difference that dedicated foster carers can make.”
Julie added: “I think it’s quite breathtaking to have been nominated for a Your Heroes Award. It’s lovely. We wanted to help others and to make a difference. You don’t do it for recognition, you do it because you want to help.”