In the Knox area, foster care is changing lives thanks to dedicated carers like Amanda and Dean, who have been recognised with the Tilly Aston Carer of the Year Award for their 20 years of commitment to vulnerable children and young people.

For 20 years, Amanda and Dean’s home has been a safe and supporting home for many of the community’s most vulnerable young people.

They were recognised for their capacity to go above and beyond to support the children and young people in their care.

In particular, they were nominated for their work supporting a young child with a serious disability. They have provided a caring and loving home that has helped this child thrive and grow despite many serious barriers.

The awards, presented by Member for Aston, Mary Doyle MP, recognise those who have exhibited unparalleled dedication, exceptional leadership, and significant impact in their chosen field or community.

Anchor CEO, Heidi Tucker said that Amanda and Dean are very deserving of the award win, saying that their home is a lifeline for vulnerable young people in the foster care system.

“Their work is a masterclass in creating a loving, safe and stable home. They are incredibly resilient, fearless advocates, and tirelessly committed to improving young people’s lives.

So much of what foster carers do goes unseen and unrewarded, so it is brilliant to see Amanda and Dean recognised with this award win.”

Amanda and Dean’s work is a great example of how people can make a difference as foster carers, at a time of increased need for people to step up and become carers.

Anchor supports people to begin their journey into becoming foster carers, offering flexible and dedicated staff who can help with all your foster care enquiries. To become a foster carer and start making a difference, visit www.anchorfostercare.org.au today.