Lydia Bright and her mother Debbie Douglas have become the government’s new Fostering Ambassadors.
The ‘Only Way is Essex’ stars, who have helped over 250 vulnerable children over the course of 20 years, have been chosen by the Department of Education to help encourage more people from different backgrounds to become carers.
Debbie, 54, said: "It is an honour to be asked to become a Fostering Ambassador, and I can’t wait to get started."
The frizzy-haired matriarch, who has four biological children of her own including Lydia, was first inspired to foster in 1993 after she met a foster mum in a pizza parlour.
Since then, Debbie has helped hundreds of children, who have come to her with heart breaking stories of alcohol or drug use, neglect, or abuse.
She added: "I’m looking forward to working with the Department for Education to encourage more people to think about fostering children. I have such an incredible family, with so many children and young people – It hasn’t always been easy, but I wouldn’t change it for the world. It’s big and it’s a lot of fun, especially this time of year."
Lydia and Debbie have jumped on board the scheme alongside current ambassador Lorraine Pascale, who began in the role a year ago, and can’t wait to get going.
Lydia, 25, explained: "I’m so honoured to be asked to be a Fostering Ambassador alongside my Mum.
"Fostering has had such a huge impact on my life – I’d love for others to experience that. Growing up was like being on a constant school trip, bunking up, sharing things, and just being part of a huge fun family. I’m really proud of my Mum; she’s my hero, and our extended family is now so big – I can’t imagine not having all these siblings around."
Lydia Bright and mum Debbie become Fostering Ambassadors
