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At a recent event held at The Glyn Clydach, 18 foster carers received service awards ranging from one year to 35 years.

Among those recognised were David and Anne Jenkins, who received a special award for over 35 years of dedicated fostering in Neath Port Talbot. Over the years, David and Ann have opened their home to provide support to vulnerable children, offering different types of care, from emergency support, overnight stays, short term foster care and long term foster care.  During their time fostering, they have cared for approximately 74 children.

More than 60 foster carers attended the event hearing from several guest speakers, including a young person with care experience who spoke about the importance of ‘clean language’. This is to raise awareness of the language used by professionals, foster carers and others when referring to care experienced children and young people by making the language used more child friendly.

Councillor Sian Harris, Neath Port Talbot Council’s Cabinet Member for Children & Family Services, said: “Foster carers make such a difference to the lives of children who need care, and this event is our way of saying thank you for everything they do.

“We are always looking to support people who are interested in fostering, and there is plenty of information and advice available for anyone considering this rewarding work.”

Neath Port Talbot Council is committed to supporting foster carers and ensuring children and young people receive the loving homes they deserve. For more information about fostering, please visit https://npt.fosterwales.gov.wales. Alternatively, contact the fostering team on 01639 685866 or email fostering@npt.gov.uk.