THE hard work of a team who recruit and train foster carers in Somerset has been recognised for its innovative and helpful approach at a national awards ceremony.

Somerset County Council’s Foster and Adoption Recruitment Service beat off tough competition to make it to the awards evening at the Hurlingham Club in London.

All the shortlisted candidates were praised as being the “most hard working and committed professionals in the country.”

The national recognition is important according to Trevor Goss, team manager for the service at Somerset County Council.

He said: “We are delighted that the hard work we have put in over the last few years has been recognised at these prestigious awards.

“However, what really matters is that children who cannot, for whatever reason, remain with their birth family, are more likely to be placed in good quality foster homes nearer to their schools and family as a result of the improving placement choices.

"Our foster carers are the real heroes.”

Between January and December 2014, a record high of 62 foster carers and 41 adoptive households were approved in Somerset.

Cllr Frances Nicholson, cabinet member for Children and Families at Somerset County Council, said: “This is brilliant news for the service, which is committed to inspiring and encouraging more people in Somerset to embark on this vital role, but more importantly it is also brilliant news for those children who cannot for whatever reason live with their families.

"The team have not only significantly increased approvals, but are recognised for their helpfulness, knowledge and ‘can do’ attitude. Well done to everyone involved."

People with space in their homes and lives are still needed to foster a child of secondary school age, teenagers, and siblings, particularly those living in Somerset’s main towns including Taunton.

To find out more about fostering with Somerset County Council, visit www.fosteradoptsomerset.org.uk or phone 080058-79900.

Their next fostering and adoption information evening takes place at the Wessex Hotel in Street on Monday, December 7 from 7-9pm.

For further details about the event, call 080058-79900.