A young man who became a foster carer himself after growing up in care, a social worker made sure a young person attended a concert of their dreams, and a talented young footballer whose confidence has flourished thanks to her foster carers are among the winners of the 2026 Fostering Excellence Awards.
On Thursday, 12 November The Fostering Network announced the winners of its 2026 Fostering Excellence Awards at a ceremony at Birmingham Repertory Theatre, hosted by comedian and foster carer Kiri Pritchard McLean. Renowned children’s author Jacqueline Wilson joined to present a Young Person’s Award, while Children’s Laureate Patrice Lawrence and The Traitors star Judy Wilson were among the VIPs in attendance.
Among this year’s winners is Kenneth, who entered foster care as a teenager and has now achieved his ambition of becoming a foster carer himself. Inspired by the care, stability and love he received from his foster carer, Kenneth dedicated his time to supporting other care-experienced young people before becoming an approved kinship carer in 2026.
Also recognised was social worker Nicki, whose nomination highlighted her unwavering commitment to children and foster carers. When a young person was unable to attend a concert in Manchester because no one else was available to support them, Nicki stepped in herself, accompanying them to the event and ensuring they returned home safely. She was also praised for regularly going above and beyond to support foster families during times of need.
Twelve-year-old Aya was honoured for her remarkable achievements both on and off the football pitch. After joining her local community football club having never kicked a ball before, she now regularly trains and plays with teams several years above her age group and has already attracted the attention of football scouts. Her nomination highlighted how football has helped transform a shy young girl into a confident role model who encourages others to take part, regardless of their fears or uncertainties.
The awards also recognised outstanding foster carers, kinship carers, social workers, children of foster carers, care-experienced young people, fostering services and fostering teams from across the UK. Winners included individuals who have transformed the lives of children through extraordinary acts of kindness, championed the voices of care-experienced young people, strengthened support for fostering and kinship families, and gone above and beyond to ensure children feel safe, loved and able to thrive.
Chief executive of The Fostering Network Sarah Thomas said:
“I am delighted The Fostering Excellence Awards have returned for 2026. I have absolutely loved reading about the exceptional winners and the invaluable contribution that every single one of the 650 nominees have made to improving outcomes for children and young people.
“They highlight that the fostering community is truly special. Fostering can be challenging for everyone involved – the foster carers, children and young people, fostering services and children of foster carers.
“Yet despite these challenges, people consistently go above and beyond to help and support others.
“It’s an honour to celebrate everyone who has received an award today, but also the wider fostering community who these winners represent. We see you and are so grateful for everything you do.”