Last week, Camden proudly celebrated the unwavering commitment and contributions of its foster carers at the annual Foster Carer Awards.
The event paid tribute to long-serving carers with awards recognising the vital role these individuals play in providing secure and loving homes.
The Mayor of Camden, Councillor Eddie Hanson, said:
“It was truly inspiring to see the dedication of our foster carers and we’re so grateful for their invaluable contribution to our community. It was an honour to be part of the evening, and to present the Sally Joseph Award – events like this truly show the incredible difference foster carers make every single day.”
Councillor Marcus Boyland, Cabinet Member for Best Start for Children and Families, said:
“Congratulations to all the foster carers honoured at this event – your hard work, passion, and dedication truly change children’s lives for the better. It’s not just the children who find a loving home; the foster families themselves experience something truly life changing.
“These awards give the Council a chance to say thank you, as well as highlighting the need for more to come forward to open their hearts and homes to children. If you’ve ever thought about fostering, please reach out and discover how you can become part of our vital fostering community.”
Awards were presented by Councillor Marcus Boyland; Councillor Jenny Mulholland, Co-Chair of Corporate Parenting Board; Camden’s Executive Director for Children and Learning, Tim Aldridge; and Director of Children’s Safeguarding and Family Help, Rashida Baig MBE. Awards were given to Camden foster carers who have dedicated 5, 10, 15, 20, and 25 years of service to the borough’s looked after children.
A highlight of the night was the announcement of the joint winners of Camden’s annual Sally Joseph Award. This accolade, established in memory of the Council’s former Head of Service for Children’s Care Provision, Sally Joseph, recognises excellent practice within corporate parenting – the Council’s approach to looking after children in care.
The Mayor of Camden, Councillor Eddie Hanson, alongside Tim Aldridge, presented this year’s award to Jacqueline Munoz and Muriel Yarnie. Their exemplary work was honoured with a £1,000 grant to further their efforts.
Other Foster Carers Award winners were:
5 years – Charlene Robinson, Danny Kohler & David Petherridge, Berhane Tekle, Anne-Marie Morris, Azeb Shonibare
10 years – Hristina & Anelin Ivanov, Eva & Vilmos Somogyi, Elaine Roberts, Tsega Ghebremichael, Hawa Abdirahman-Abdi, Sheena & Alistair Tresidder
15 years – Birgitta Lambrechts, Janet Lake
20 years – Tsgereda Ghebrai, Ramone Taylor
25 years – Jennifer Chentite
This year’s awards took place at Regent’s Park Holiday Inn and was compered by Tim Aldridge.
Camden Council continues to seek compassionate individuals and families interested in fostering. Fostering with Camden offers a comprehensive support package designed to make the journey as seamless and rewarding as possible. Those who wish to learn more about becoming a foster carer and providing a loving home for a child in need are encouraged to contact the Camden Fostering Team.
