Janet Wilcock, a devoted foster carer from Leeds who specializes in caring for babies affected by drug or alcohol withdrawal, was celebrated as the Unsung Hero of the Year at the Compassionate City Awards ceremony held at Leeds Civic Hall.
The Compassionate City Awards recognize individuals and organizations for their efforts in positively impacting their communities and advancing the council’s vision of making Leeds the best city in the UK. Janet, who fosters through Foster4Leeds, has dedicated over 22 years to fostering approximately 70 infants born addicted to drugs or alcohol. She provides care from birth until they are one to two years old, at which point they usually move on to adoption.
Janet Wilcock, a Leeds foster carer specializing in babies born with drug or alcohol dependencies, plays a crucial role that demands immense dedication and skill. These infants require intensive 24-hour care due to their health conditions at birth. Janet’s efforts are supported by a network that includes friends, family, and social workers. Initially, it was uncommon for foster carers to maintain contact with adoptive parents, but practices have evolved, and now adoptive parents are encouraged to stay connected with foster carers. As a result, Janet has become a cherished member of many extended families. Alongside her work with infants, Janet has also provided a stable home for a teenager for over ten years.
In the Community Sports Project of the Year category, Farsley Celtic Deaf FC took home the award. The club, which originated from the former Leeds Deaf FC in 2016, has quickly become one of the top deaf football teams in England and Europe. This year, they clinched the England Deaf Football (EDF) Challenge Cup, won the EDF League Championship Final, and secured third place in the Deaf Champions League in Athens. Their accomplishments extend beyond the pitch, enhancing community spirit and fostering a profound sense of unity among residents.
Hyde Park Source was also recognized for their exceptional contributions, receiving the Environmental Achievement of the Year award. The organization operates seven different weekly volunteer gardening groups, including two hosted at Leeds Museums and Galleries’ sites: Leeds Industrial Museum and Kirkstall Abbey. They consistently foster an inclusive environment where community members are encouraged to participate in gardening sessions, build friendships, and enjoy nature.
Councillor Mary Harland, Leeds City Council’s executive member for communities, customer service and community safety said:
“These annual awards celebrate the outstanding work people around our city are doing every day in their communities or for the wider city. Our ambition is for Leeds to be the best city in the UK and that is exactly what these people are championing.
“There are so many incredible unsung heroes who showcase the best that Leeds has to offer, and it is vital that they get the recognition they deserve for making Leeds a better place for everyone. Congratulations to all the winners!”
Full List of Winners:
Unsung Sporting Hero of the Year: Alan Hunter
Unsung Hero of the Year: Janet Wilcock
Diversity Project of the Year: Happy Tears Foundation
Health and Wellbeing Project of the Year: Hawa Bah
Community Sports Project of the Year: Farsley Celtic Deaf FC
Community Organisation or Project of the Year: Getting Clean CIC
Environmental Achievement of the Year: Hyde Park Source
Jo Cox Award: Horsforth Town of Sanctuary
Fundraising achievement of the Year: Bev Yearwood
Special Recognition Award: Tom Riordan
