Hundreds of events were planned all around the UK to celebrate Foster Care Fortnight. The Fostering Network held events in Belfast, Cardiff, Glasgow and London to mark the campaign.
In Belfast, the Fostering Network Northern Ireland hosted a glamorous Black Tie and Diamonds Charity Ball where they launched the ‘Foster Carer of the Year’ award, sponsored by Manleys.
The
impressive venue, Belfast’s City Hall, set the scene for a night of
opulence. The deputy lord mayor of Belfast, Ruth Patterson, joined
the 300 guests and faces of foster care who were treated to a
champagne and Guinness reception and a fantastic evening of
entertainment.
The real focal point of the night was the awards ceremony for the chosen foster carers - nominated by friends and family, for all the truly inspirational commitment they have given to the fostered children and young people in their care. Guests were moved by the touching tribute to this year’s winner Angela McCallister as a letter from her foster daughter Rachel, who nominated her, was read out. In her letter Rachel said
“She made us feel wanted, safe and loved, we had arrived as with the majority of foster children with a lot of emotional baggage, but she took it all in her stride….she is my hero, I would not be where I am today without her belief in my ability.�?
Angela was presented with her award and prize of a well-deserved holiday by Lester Manley.
In Cardiff, the faces of foster care photographic installation was unveiled at The Point in Cardiff Bay by Jane Butler, director of The Fostering Network Wales and the faces of foster care from Wales. Voices from Care Cymru also announced their Charter for Change.
In London the Fostering Network arranged a private view of the faces of foster care specially commissioned installation. Many of the faces of foster care attended to help kick start the campaign.