The council's Fostering for Wolverhampton team recognised the service of their foster parents at the annual For the Love of Fostering awards evening at Molineux Stadium.
Over 100 people attended the event, aimed at celebrating the city’s fantastic foster parents and recognising those earning long-service awards.
As well as the usual awards for the completion of 10-,15-,20- and 30-years’ service, and those achieving permanency, there was also a special thank-you and commendations for the city’s retiring foster parents, including Dulcie and Dave Phoenix.
The pair have been dedicated foster parents for Wolverhampton since October 2001, and recently made the decision to retire after an incredible 23 years of fostering.
Reflecting on their remarkable journey, Dulcie said: "If we were asked if we'd do 23 years again, our answer would be an unequivocal yes! We have seen the children we’ve looked after, thrive and strive, and they have become productive adults, which makes it all worthwhile."
The evening was opened by Alison Hinds, the council’s Director of Children’s Services, with awards being presented by Councillor Jacqui Coogan, Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Education.
Councillor Coogan said: “It was a privilege to recognise the incredible contributions of our dedicated foster parents in Wolverhampton.
“These are truly exceptional individuals, and I was honoured to express my gratitude for their tireless work in supporting the children and young people of our city. Hearing their powerful and inspiring stories was a highlight.
"We are fortunate to have such a compassionate and committed community of residents in Wolverhampton who provide loving care to our most vulnerable children and young people. However, there are still many young people in need of a permanent foster home.
"I encourage anyone who has ever thought about fostering to reach out to our Fostering for Wolverhampton team to learn more about how they can make a lasting difference.”
Fostering for Wolverhampton seek foster parents from a wide range of backgrounds, professions, and ethnic groups. Foster parents must be at least 21 years of age, live within a 20-mile radius of Wolverhampton and have a spare bedroom – but, most importantly, they must have room in their heart to care for the city’s most vulnerable children and young people.
To find out more, please visit Fostering for Wolverhampton, call the Fostering for Wolverhampton team on 01902 551133 or search ‘FosteringForWolves’ on Facebook and Instagram.
