Victor and Glenys Chocalingum from Llanllyfni who have been fostering for 25 years; Marian Parry Hughes from Gwynedd Council; and Graham and Carol Lumley from Rhiwlas who have been foster carers for 30 years
A special evening dinner was recently held to celebrate and pay tribute to Gwynedd foster parents’ for their amazing contribution, work and dedication.
There are about 195 children in Gwynedd who live and grow up in a safe and comfortable environment thanks to the tireless efforts of foster parents from all parts of the county, and the evening was a great opportunity to thank them for their contribution and work.
Councillor R H Wyn Williams, Gwynedd Council Cabinet Member for Care said:
“Foster parents provide a family home and support to children and young people who find themselves in a situation where their own families are unable to look after them for a variety of different reasons. This could be for only a few days or in some cases a longer period of more than a year.
“Without these special carers, who open their own homes to children and young people who need support, there is a risk that a large number of vulnerable children would have to move away from their own communities, extended family, school and friends to be placed with foster families.”
Marian Parry Hughes, Head of Gwynedd Council’s Children and Family Support Department added:
“Foster carers play a vital role in ensuring some of the most vulnerable children in the county have an opportunity to develop and thrive.
“We are very proud of the commitment and efforts of our foster carers to provide them with a safe home throughout the course of the year, and hosting an annual dinner is an opportunity to demonstrate our appreciation. A recent independent inspection report on the fostering service also confirms the high quality of care provided here in Gwynedd.”
During the celebration evening at Porthmadog, special awards were given to people who have made an enormous contribution to society, including:
30 years of fostering: Graham and Carol Lumley, Rhiwlas, Bangor
25 years of fostering: Victor and Glenys Chocalingum, Llanllyfni, Caernarfon.
15 years of fostering: Jenny Morrison, Bethesda.
10 years of fostering: Gareth and Ceinwen Hughes, Bethesda,
10 years of fostering : Owain and Sian Edwards, Y Bala.
10 years of fostering : Rhys and Mandy Williams, Talybont, Bangor.
Gwynedd Council’s Fostering Team is always very active in recruiting new carers and there are currently 108 registered foster carers within the county.
They would especially welcome applications from anyone interested in caring for the following groups in particular:
– sibling groups – keeping brothers and sisters together
– short breaks for disabled children
– older children and young people – particular need for foster carers to look after 12- 16 year olds
If you think you can make a positive contribution to the lives of children and young people in Gwynedd, contact the Council on 01286 685608 or [email protected]
