Salford’s foster carers have been celebrated for their extraordinary dedication and life-changing support to local children at a special awards ceremony hosted by Salford City Council recently.

The event brought together carers from across the city – from those just starting their fostering journey to those who have opened their homes for more than three decades. Each year, the awards offer a valuable opportunity to highlight the dedication of foster carers across the city, celebrating their compassion, resilience and unwavering commitment.

Hosted by the council’s fostering service, the ceremony featured speeches from the outgoing Ceremonial Mayor of City of Salford, Councillor Heather Fletcher and Councillor Jim Cammell, who together presented a range of long-service and special recognition awards along with Teressa Pepper, a member of the council’s fostering panel.

This year’s accolades honoured foster carers marking five, ten, fifteen and even 30 years of service. A standout moment of the awards recognised Rachel and Namir Cohen who have been fostering in Salford for 30 years – an inspiring achievement reflecting three decades of love, stability and unwavering commitment to local children.

The event also celebrated newcomers who are already making a significant impact, as well as carers nominated by social workers for consistently going above and beyond in the care they provide.

Councillor Jim Cammell, Lead Member for Children’s and Young People’s Services, said: “Fostering is a full-time commitment that requires patience, resilience and a genuine commitment to supporting young people. We’re proud to celebrate all of our carers who make a positive difference to children’s lives every single day.

“Whether you’ve been fostering for six months or 30 years, what matters is the impact you have. Every story, every home, every act of care helps shape a brighter future for our young people.

“Becoming a foster carer is one of the most powerful ways you can change a child’s life. It’s about providing stability, kindness and hope at a time when everything can feel uncertain. Foster carers offer more than just a safe home — they help children feel valued, supported and that they belong, which can have a lifelong impact.

“Foster carers play a vital role in helping the council achieve its vision for a child friendly city and these awards recognise their dedication and remarkable contribution to life in Salford.”

Further details about becoming a Foster Carer in Salford can be found on the Salford City Council Foster for Salford website.