Wiltshire sweeps the board at National Children's Awards

The National Children and Young People's Awards, which celebrate excellence in care provision for children, young people, and families, recognised the council's work in four separate categories.

Wiltshire Council foster carers, Christine and Martin, were honoured with the Foster Carer Award for their commitment and perseverance.

Foster carers Martin and Christine with Tracy, a fostering supervising social worker at Wiltshire Council (Image: Wiltshire Council) 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.

"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.

"We also hope that, during what is an extremely emotionally challenging and difficult time, 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.”

The council itself was awarded the Employer Award South, recognising it as an exceptional employer committed to providing an excellent service to children, young people, and families.

Wiltshire Council’s Emerald Team, responsible for initiatives promoting positive change for the lives of vulnerable children and families, won the Biggest Impact Award.

Wiltshire Council's Emerald Team celebrating their award (Image: Wiltshire Council) The team includes social workers, adolescent support workers, missing children staff, and health and other partners, working to reduce the risk to children outside the home.

Service manager for support and safeguarding in the families and children service, Pier Pritchard, was honoured with 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."

Councillor Laura Mayes, cabinet member for children’s services, added: "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."