Super foster mum says she will never stop

Linda Garforth (second right) said it can be tough saying goodbye to a child

A single mum whose example inspired her twin daughters to join her in fostering children has urged other people in her community to offer their homes to vulnerable young people.

Mother-of-three Linda Garforth, 66, who has been fostering through Oldham Council for 33 years, said: "If you have room in your home and room in your heart, pick up the phone and inquire. It's the best decision I ever made."

Alongside her twin daughters Christine Garforth, who has fostered for 13 years and Catherine McNamara, who has fostered for five years, they have cared of more than 300 children.

The council said her "selfless" actions have changed the lives of many children.

Ms Garforth decided to become a foster carer because of her "caring nature" adding: "I was always the one looking after my friends' children while they were at work.

'No going back'

"When I saw an ad in the local paper for foster carers in Oldham, I felt I had to do something."

Despite initial doubts as a single parent of three, she took a chance as she "realised that fostering was something I'd rather do than keep looking after my friends' children".

She added: "Once I made that call, I knew there was no going back."

Ms Garforth often cares for children until they grow up and in one case adopted a child.

"It's tough to say goodbye, but it's part of the job," she said

"Knowing we've made a positive impact on a child's life makes it all worth it."

She added: "Each child brings something special, watching them grow and do well under our care is the best part.

"Despite the challenges, fostering brings so much happiness. Each child is unique, and they all bring something precious into our lives.

"I'll always remember that time a little boy arrived with a huge bag nearly twice the size of him that turned out to be nearly empty, except for a small teddy bear that he gave to me."

'Family affair'

She said: "When he left, we filled that big bag full of clothes and toys as he deserved it. Seeing him blossom under our care was truly heartwarming.

"It's moments like these that make it all worthwhile.

"Fostering has become a family affair for us," she said.

"We support each other through the highs and lows, creating a supportive and loving home for both the children and us.

"I've been thinking about semi-retiring, but it's not quite working out as I hoped."

Despite starting to lose her eyesight 11 years ago she said: "Honestly, I'm not sure if I could ever fully step away when there are children who need me.

"I've currently been looking after a baby since they were born, and helping other children who need a break for a few weeks through respite."

Nick Whitbread, assistant director of corporate parenting for Oldham Council said her "selfless actions have made a real difference in the lives of vulnerable children in our community".