Posted on Tuesday 31st October 2023
Cllr Mark Sutton with Foster Carer Kath Diss
Staffordshire’s foster families were thanked, during a special film screening and celebration event, for their work in providing loving homes for the county’s children in care.
Over 60 people gathered for the event, organised by Staffordshire County Council’s Fostering Service, held in the Met Studio at the Gatehouse Theatre in Stafford.
Carers got the chance to watch the latest short film ‘Any of Us’, which highlights the experiences of 3 people who talk about becoming foster carers.
For foster carer Kath Diss from Burntwood, the event coincided with the anniversary of first becoming a foster carer. An incredible 38 years later, she is still fostering and is keen to encourage others to take on the role.
Kath said:
“I became a foster carer in my twenties, after I’d had my own family. It’s been the most rewarding thing I have ever done, caring for babies. We are still in touch with some of the children we’ve cared for, one lad is now in his twenties.
“To anyone considering fostering, I would say do it - but you’ve got to be caring, loving and understanding. The hardest part is when you have to say goodbye but I love making a difference in a child’s life.”
Talking at the event, Mark Sutton, Staffordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Children and Young People said:
“It’s wonderful to get together as a fostering service and celebrate the amazing work of our foster carers. It was a real pleasure to be able to present Kath with her long service award, as she has made an outstanding contribution to caring for Staffordshire children, over her nearly four decades of service.
“The event brought together some of our experienced foster carers, as well as some of our brand-new foster families. It was wonderful to meet them, thank them for the amazing job that they do and share in their stories. These families have such a positive impact on the children’s lives, and we really value the care and support they provide.
“We are always on the lookout for more foster families, so I would encourage anyone who is considering fostering to get in touch with us.”
To find out more about fostering with Staffordshire County Council and watch the film visit the Foster for Staffordshire website.