Thirty foster carers from across Lancashire tot up a staggering 870 years of service

The kind-hearted carers, who have all completed at least two decades each, were honoured with Long Service Awards marking their commitment to fostering for Lancashire County Council.

Some 10 of these carers were able to attend a recent buffet luncheon, where they were presented with their awards and thanked for their outstanding work by County Councillor Peter Britcliffe, Chairman of Lancashire County Council.

Louise Anderson, Director of Children's Social Care, joined County Councillor Cosima Towneley, the Cabinet Member for Children and Families, in reading out citations for their work and awarding them certificates and long service payments. A further 20 foster carers were also given rewards and certificates, although they were not able to attend on the day.

Cllr Cosima Towneley said: "Fostering is at the heart of what we do at Lancashire County Council and the very real, long-lasting difference you can make to a child or teenager's life is very obvious and clear to see.

"These amazing carers show what a difference they have made to children's futures, giving their time, love and attention.

"From some of the inspiring stories that I have heard today, you can tell that our foster carers put the children first at all times and have made an unbelievable change to the lives of the families that they have helped. I am so proud of what they do and it was an honour to reward them for their services."

Janet and Dennis Burke, from South Ribble, who have looked after more than 50 children, believe that keeping them safe is the most important part of fostering.

They specialise in advocating for children's voices to be heard and have cared for youngsters with various complex needs.

Janet said: "Keeping children safe and at ease is vital. We love for them to feel fully part of our family – whatever you would do for your own children, including holidays, is for everyone in your family. We like to ensure great relationships with their family too and try to facilitate that, wherever possible."

Dennis added: "It's really important to be supportive of the children and to always be available for what they need."

Lyn and Chris Monks, from Preston, have fostered for 37 years. They love to build long-lasting relationships and each Boxing Day, they hold an open house celebration for all the families that they have cared for.

They also host a camping trip in the Easter holidays to celebrate as a wider family.

Lyn said: "It's important to treat every child the same. Listening is key – and so is love. Some need that that family environment and so you must become their parents in every way that is needed."

Carol Dean from Hyndburn believes that making sure each child's voice is heard provides their sense of worth.

She said: "It's very important that a child's voice is heard, as a lot of children have had their sense of control taken from them. Giving them choices rather than just telling them is important. We practice therapeutic parenting and that has made a huge difference to the way that I parent – the right training is key. You need a good sense of humour, you must be kind and anyone can do it, you just need the right tools in your toolbox.

"Give it a go – I started fostering when my child was four and started with babies and then as my child got older, so did the foster children's ages. I never considered teenagers but they are funny and charismatic! Befriend them, find out what they want and don't be authoritative – gear the care around the young person.

"You must be proactive with the vocation – extra training makes you a much better carer. You have to have the knowledge and the training  - go into it with awareness of your vocation. Therapeutic parenting training has turned my skills around and made a huge difference."