"You will create so many happy memories like we did" - the Mayor and Mayoress of Oldham share their journey as foster carers as they urge others to take the step

The couple began fostering in 1978 and in 1981 Kath was appointed manager of a Family Group Home — a small children's home where they cared for up to 10 children in a family setting. 

Between 1981 and 1989 the couple cared for 36 children at the Family Group Home, and the Moores provided them with a caring, safe and secure space to grow and thrive. 

Cooking family dinners and Sunday lunches together, taking them shopping and teaching them about finances and spending their pocket money wisely are among the special memories. 

"We also learned a lot about ourselves," said Cllr Moores. "We are still in contact with some of them now. 
"One of them lives in Australia now and he told me 'you always told me to work in the rail industry, and I did.' 
"The eldest was 15 and he's 60 now and he has children and grandchildren himself." 

Kath said: "I remember one day we were watching a film together and one little girl turned to me and said 'this is really like a home.' I was so proud." 

The couple, both 73, put themselves forward to become foster carers at the age of 25 after encountering fertility problems and they went on to have two children of their own. 

Fostering came especially naturally to Kath as the youngest of 12 children. 

"Providing a stability for young people is so important," said Cllr Moores. "I'm proud that we were fostering by the age of 26 or 27 and had a Family Group Home when we were 29. 

"That pride you have when when you see them go on to get their own house and have their own families can't be matched. Three now run their own business." 

Kath said: "We had some great times. We took the kids on holidays with us and we made bonds that we will have for the rest of our lives. 

"We wanted to give children a better life and it was even better than we expected." 

Cllr Moores added: "Anybody thinking of foster caring, it's a big step but there is lots of support out there — and it's a great opportunity as you get so much out of it. You will create so many happy memories like we did." 

For more information about becoming a foster carer, contact Oldham Council's fostering team on 0300 303 0321 or visit www.oldham.gov.uk/fostering