Linda Garforth became a foster carer at the age of 34 after seeing an advert in a local newspaper.

Now 68, Linda has fostered children and young people of all ages for different lengths of time, and both of her twin daughters Christine and Catherine have followed in her footsteps to become foster carers, Christine since 2008 and Catherine since 2020.

She has provided long-term, short-term and short-break placements and went on to adopt one of the children in her care. Currently she is caring for a seven-month-old baby.

"I have looked after children from just 30 hours old to teenagers." explained Linda, "The most rewarding thing about being a foster carer is knowing that you have made a difference and seeing someone who has arrived withdrawn leave you with good memories."

Before becoming a foster carer she said she was  "always minding friends' kids and thought there are children that need more than looking after. I realised I could make a real difference. After 200 children I stopped counting."

Linda was one of the selfless foster carers honoured at Oldham Council Fostering Service's celebration evening on Friday 16th October. The annual event brought together around 70 foster carers alongside 30 fostering staff for an evening of recognition and appreciation.

Now in its fourteenth year, the annual celebration is one of the most important events in the fostering calendar, providing an opportunity to thank foster carers for the vital role they play in the lives of Oldham’s children and young people. 

The highlight of the event was the presentation of Long Service Awards to 22 foster families, including Linda, who have collectively provided 250 years of fostering.

If you have room in your heart and your home, and curious to learn more about becoming a Foster Carer, please take the time to read the information on our website.  

Once you are ready to take the first step on your journey to becoming a foster carer, please get in touch with us via

• The Enquiry Form
• Email at enquire@fosterforgm.com
• Phone on 0300 303 0321

A committed and friendly member of our team will contact you within one working day of your enquiry and are here to answer any further questions you may have about fostering.  They will also explain and guide you through our step-by-step approach in your journey to becoming a foster carer.