Heidi Summerfield

Rita has been a foster carer since 2007 and has “never looked back” having provided a safe and secure home for dozens of children and young people in need over the past 14 years.

Thirty years ago, Shahida visited a friend in London who was a foster carer.

When Darren was four years old his parents became foster carers, welcoming children and young people in need into their home.

October is national sons and daughters month – the perfect opportunity to celebrate the children of foster carers in Bolton.

Creating a happy home where nobody gets upset, argues or feels alone can often be a daunting task for parents, especially when the house is full of children of different ages.

Children’s mental health is a huge concern for everyone following the Covid-19 pandemic and the easing of lockdown restrictions.

Many children and young people across the region will have started new schools earlier this month as the summer holidays came to an end.

Judith Johnson has been a childminder for more than 30 years and has a wealth of knowledge and experience to draw on as a foster carer.

Amanda Booth is an inspirational parent and foster carer.

Eight years ago Mark Grainger was working long hours for the Highways Agency and spending too much time away from home.