Local foster carer receives MBE in Queen Jubilee year
Sharon Thomas, a foster carer from Vale of Glamorgan has been invited to receive an MBE at Windsor Castle on Tuesday 15th March.
Sharon, alongwith her husband David, will be attending the royal event in recognition of over 31 years as a foster carer with their local authority, Foster Wales Vale of Glamorgan.
“I received an email during COVID, and I thought it was a scam, as things like this don’t happen to ordinary people like myself. I can’t wait”
Sharon, who back in 1991 was working with the elderly, met a foster carer who inspired her to use her spare bedroom to help local children, and she’s never looked back.
“It’s very rewarding. It’s not easy, but I wouldn’t change it for the world”
As foster carers with their local authority, Sharon and her husband David mostly care for adolescents.
“There are issues with alcohol, drugs and emotions; you have to be really patient and listen. You have to nurture them, no matter what age, they are all looking for love.”
Sharon explained that foster carers need to be non-judgemental and accepting and added a lovely phrase, “we don’t all come from the same shoe”
If Sharon could pass on advice to anyone thinking about fostering it’s to attend training.
“The training teaches you the right tools to help young people”
Alastair Cope, Head of Foster, said “Congratulations to Sharon and David. It’s wonderful to see our local authority foster carers in Wales being recognised for the important role they play in giving young people a better future. We hope they have a fabulous day”
Sharon says she will treasure this moment for the rest of her life.
