“FOSTER Care Fortnight” is The Fostering Network’s annual campaign to raise the profile of fostering and show how foster care transforms lives.

So we spoke to Mid Devon District Councillor Stuart Penny, (Cabinet Member for Housing and Property Services) and his wife Sam, who are Foster Carers, to find out a little more.

Stuart said: ”We’ve been fostering for Devon County Council for eight years now and it’s the most rewarding career either of us have had.

“Offering a safe, nurturing home for a child or young person is just the start of the journey we have taken with these children.

“Some children only stay for a short while, whilst others stay for a few years. But no matter how long they are with us, they become part of the family and we share in their struggles and achievements.

“Devon provides excellent training on a wide range of topics that help us to perform our roles as best as we can.

“We are really supported by a wonderful network of foster carers who have become close friends throughout our fostering journey and Devon arranges support groups and activities for us all to take part in together.

“You are definitely part of a team when you work for Devon and never left on your own.”

He added: “Fostering can be a tough job and very emotional at times.

“If children return back to their parents, it’s wonderful to see that family reunited, knowing that we were supporting the parents and children to maintain that strong bond whilst they stayed with us.

“If children are being adopted, then it’s a privilege to be part of the story where a new family is created.

“There are more than 800 children in care in Devon right now and not enough homes.

“If you’ve got a spare bedroom and you think you could offer warmth, safety and care to a child in need, then please do contact the enquiry line for Devon County Council Fostering on: 0345 155 1077 or visit the website: http://www.fosteringindevon.org.uk/ .