Jamie Baulch shows his support for foster carers

The hard work and dedication of foster carers in Cardiff was recognised and rewarded at an awards evening last Sunday. Over 100 foster carers and children attended the event, held at the Grape and Olive bar, in the Heath area. The council’s fostering service organised the evening to formally thank their foster carers for all their hard work and dedication to the children and young people in their care.

Jamie Baulch, the Welsh and British 400 metre athlete, showed his support to foster carers by presenting the various awards. Jamie is associated with the newly founded Queenie’s Trust that has been set up in memory of one of Cardiff’s long service and well-loved foster carers, Queenie Draper. The trust is currently developing a sports academy, Keep on Track, for children in foster care.

Cllr John Dixon, Executive Member for Social Care and Health said: “Fostering is a vital role that can make a huge difference to the lives of our vulnerable young people. Foster carers work extremely hard and I am delighted we can reward them at this enjoyable event, where we can thank them for their dedication. It’s nice to see such an good turn out from both the foster carers and children and we are extremely pleased that Jamie Baulch was able to show his support”

Sue Shepherd, a foster carer for 13 years said “It was such an enjoyable evening for such a worth while vocation.

Cardiff Council is looking to increase the number of foster carers they have. Anyone interested in becoming a foster carer should contact the fostering team on 029 2077 4600 or visit www.cardiff.gov.uk/fostering