A FAMILY has been recognised for their dedication at an awards ceremony to praise the work of foster carers.

Organised by Durham County Council’s fostering service, the annual event celebrates the completion of national training programmes and long service, ranging from five years through to 30 years.

Three foster families also received Special Achievement Awards for going the extra mile in caring for children and young people.

Ingrida Pigagiene and Vilius Pigaga, who currently foster four children alongside their own three children, were nominated after feedback from a family who adopted one of their previous foster children.

A letter to the team said: “It has been our privilege to have worked with Ingrida and Vilius and we cannot express how lucky we feel that our children were placed with them when they entered the looked after system.

“We could never express fully our gratitude for the help and support they have given us and continue to offer us. They are a huge part of our family and hold a special place in our hearts.”

The other two families were unable to be identified.

Around 100 people attended the event, including foster carers and their families, authority staff and members led by Margaret Whellans, director of children and young people’s services, Mike Dixon, the council's vice chairman and Peter Brookes, chairman of the corporate parenting panel.

Florence Coulter, fostering team manager, said: “These are ordinary people who choose to make a real difference to the lives of the children and young people that they care for – they really bring to life our motto of making ordinary moments extraordinary – and for this we are truly grateful.”

There is currently a shortage of foster carers in County Durham. Anyone interested can call 03000 269 400 or visit www.durham.gov.uk/fostering