A FOSTER carer from Borehamwood has been recognised for her work.

Foster carer Jackie Barnett was recognised for her dedication to fostering at Hertfordshire County Council's Foster Care Appreciation Awards, at County Hall, in Hertford.

Mrs Barnett, from Borehamwood, received an award for outstanding fostering services for more than 50 years.

She has fostered hundreds of children and young people and remains in touch with many of them.

Mrs Barnett began her fostering career with Buckinghamshire County Council before moving to Hertfordshire.

She now primarily fosters babies, but has also provided both long and short-term care to children of all ages. She describes fostering as “a way of life”.

More than 100 carers were awarded for long and exceptional service at the awards.

Introducing the awards, executive member for children’s services, Richard Roberts, said: “The roles of our foster carers has changed considerably over recent years - we ask our carers to undertake many more varied and complex tasks and training.

“These awards are our opportunity to say thank you for your commitment to supporting Hertfordshire children. We are very proud of the work that you do and value very much our partnership with you.”

For more details on fostering, call freephone 0800 917 0925 or visit www.hertsdirect.org/fostering