Foster carers recognised
Tuesday, 12 May 2026
We celebrated our foster carers at a ‘Celebration of Fostering’ event this weekend, recognising 15 households who together have given an incredible 105 years of dedicated fostering service.
The event took place on Saturday 9 May at Houghton Regis Leisure and Community Centre, with adults and children attending a Hollywood themed celebration day focused on recognising the foster carers’ commitment to supporting children and young people across the area.
The celebration also gave families an opportunity to connect and enjoy activities including a children’s entertainer, soft play and a colouring mat. All children were invited to take a sequin crown or tie to add to the glamour of the day!
We presented long service awards to 15 households, recognising milestones of 5, 10 and 15 years of fostering. Together, the awards represented 105 years of cumulative service, highlighting the lasting contribution foster carers make by providing stable, supportive and nurturing homes for children and young people.
Natalie, who has been fostering since 2018, and attended the celebration event, said:
I’ve fostered 6 children – 4 have now been adopted which is so rewarding as you’re seeing people become family, but can be emotional.
On how she started fostering, Natalie said:
I saw an advert online and wanted to help give children somewhere to call home. There was a lot of support available and I’m glad I did it. I don’t know who I’d be without fostering, and I’ll carry on for as long as I can.
Councillor Gareth Mackey, our Executive Member for Children’s Services said:
Foster carers make an extraordinary difference to the lives of children and young people by providing the stability, encouragement and compassion they need to thrive. Through their care, they create safe and nurturing homes where children feel valued, supported and able to build confidence for the future.
These awards are a recognition not only of years of dedicated service, but of the lasting impact our foster carers have on the lives of children every single day. We are incredibly grateful for their dedication and kindness, and for the vital support they continue to provide to children and young people across Central Bedfordshire.
Find out how you can foster a child in Central Bedfordshire.