October 28, 2019 - 2969 views
A local girl in fostering has been recognised with a National Award for her outstanding help and inspiration.
12 year old Matilda Pierce received the ‘Outstanding Contribution by Sons and Daughters’ award at the annual Fostering Excellence Awards, organised by The Fostering Network.
Matilda was described as a fantastic individual who has played a large part in the lives of all the young people that had lived in their home.
Matilda’s family started fostering when she was just three months old and during the last decade she has played an active role at home, helping children through difficulties such as mental health and gender transitioning. And she was integral to a young person’s move from residential to foster care, as well as dealing with personal challenges amazingly whilst both her parents were seriously ill.
Conwy County Borough Council’s Chief Executive, Iwan Davies said “It’s easy to overlook or forget the role that the sons and daughters of foster families play in making the children coming into their homes welcome, supported and part of the family.
"So I think it’s really great that we spend some time to recognise the contribution they make and I thank each and every one for all that they do.”
Matilda is a great advocate for fostering, very aware of the transformational power of foster care and outspoken about the benefits. Described by her parents as a lovely person with great communication skills who would always fight her fostered siblings corner.
Matilda feels it’s fun being part of a foster family and when asked what her tips would be to other sons and daughters in her position, she said, “stick to it, it’s not that bad and just breath, it’s good.”
Over 65,000 children live with almost 55,000 foster families across the UK each day. An estimated 8,600 new foster families are needed across the UK over the next 12 months alone to provide secure and loving homes for fostered children.
For details about fostering and being a stable place in a young person's life please visit www.conwy.gov.uk/Fostering
