A FOSTER carer has reached new heights – by climbing one of the world’s highest peaks to raise cash for children in care.
Mark Slater, from Penistone, completed his trek up Mount Toubkal in Morocco and has raised almost £1,000 for the Barnsley Foster Carer Association.
Established in 1975, the association is made up of foster carers who have been approved by Barnsley Council, who aim to improve the experience of care and promote good practice within the fostering community.
The cash will be used for activities including pantomimes, bowling, trips to amusement parks and annual parties such as Halloween and Christmas.
Mark said: “Often children in care have not had the same life chances and experiences that other children have had.
“The funds raised will go towards providing educational and fun activities for our children and young people.
“This is particularly beneficial as these activities mean they can meet other children and young people who are in similar situations to themselves – it gives the children a sense of community spirit and wellbeing, boosts their confidence and helps them to thrive and move forward in life.
“In these difficult times, it is more important than ever that the most vulnerable children in society that may not have had the best start in life are given the best opportunity to thrive and develop.”
Coun Trevor Cave, cabinet spokesperson for children’s services, added: “It’s heart-warming to see the community spirit and devotion from our foster carers who give so much to Barnsley’s children and young people.
“It’s a fantastic achievement and Mark should be especially proud of himself, as we all are, for his commitment to the fostering community.”
