Wiltshire sweeps the board at National Children and Young People Awards

Wiltshire Council’s work with children and young people has gained national recognition after claiming four separate awards at a national event.

The National Children and Young People’s Awards celebrate excellence in care for children, young people and families, showcase innovation and best practice in this area and pay tribute to those individuals or organisations who excel in quality care provision.

Wiltshire Council foster carers Christine and Martin were recognised for their commitment and perseverance claiming the Foster Carer Award.

They said: “Receiving the Foster Carer Award at the National Children and Young People Awards ceremony was a huge surprise and an absolute honour.  It prompted us to reflect on the journey we've had over the past 23 years, during which we've had the privilege of caring for nearly 60 children. It’s important to recognise however that a foster carer is just one part of a much larger team, and we’ve been fortunate to work alongside many incredible professionals over the years, including social workers, support staff, health and education experts, and importantly many fantastic foster carers!

"There is no doubt that fostering has deeply enriched our lives, and it is fulfilling to know that we've contributed positively to the lives of the children we’ve cared for, and at the same time having fun along the way!  We also hope that, during what is an extremely emotionally challenging and difficult time, that the birth families of those children always found us to be non-judgmental, inclusive and compassionate, which is what we have always striven to achieve.”

Wiltshire Council won Employer Award South which acknowledges an exceptional employer committed to employees delivering an excellent service to children, young people and families. 

The Emerald Team won the Biggest Impact Award for initiatives that promoted positive change for the lives of vulnerable children and families. The team works with young people alongside a range of partners, looking at various ways to support, including reducing the risk to children outside the home. The team includes social workers, adolescent support workers, missing children staff, and health and other partners.

Pier Pritchard Service Manager Support and Safeguarding, Families and Children service, received the Lifetime Achievement Award. She said: “I feel a little overwhelmed to receive this award for 'just doing my job' and one I enjoy. It means a lot to be recognised alongside colleagues for our work with families, children and young people in Wiltshire.”

Cllr Laura Mayes, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, said: “Congratulations to everyone for this national recognition. It highlights the incredible work, commitment and the amazing ways our people make a difference in the lives of children, young people and their families every day. Our hardworking foster carers and dedicated staff do an extraordinary job. We couldn’t be prouder.”