FOSTER carers have been recognised at an awards ceremony organised by Bromsgrove-based FosterTalk.

Hundreds of foster carers were nominated for a variety of awards to mark the 10th anniversary of the service, based at The Courtyard, Buntsford Gate, which promotes nationwide specialist independent support to foster carers in areas such as legal and financial advice and counselling.

Among the winners were Susan and George Price, foster carers with Liverpool City Council, nominated for their dedication to fostering for more than 40 years and the enormous difference they make to more than 300 children in their care, during that time.

After receiving the FosterTalk Foster Carers Long Service Award, Susan said: “My Mum was a foster carer, so I grew up knowing the difference it can make to young people.

"Over the years, we’ve looked after babies and large sibling groups – sometimes five children at the same time.

"It is hugely rewarding and I wouldn’t want to do anything else."

Melody Douglas, managing director of FosterTalk, said: “We work with foster carers on a daily basis and are proud to be able to recognise the positive impact they make on the lives of others through these awards.

"We had hundreds of entries which made it very hard for our judges, but all of the awards are very well deserved and we hope it inspires other people to consider becoming foster carers."

Minister for Children and Families, Edward Timpson, said: "As someone from a foster family, I know how vital it is for foster carers to have access to support as and when they need it – from the moment they welcome a new child into their home to the moment they leave.

"FosterTalk has provided invaluable help and advice to foster carers over the past 10 years, making sure they have everything they need to provide a stable, loving home."

FosterTalk helps more than 21,000 foster carers nationwide, working alongside more than 120 fostering providers in the support of their foster carers.

For more details about FosterTalk visit fostertalk.org or call 01527 836910.