A NEWTON Aycliffe foster agency is celebrating this week after receiving an outstanding Ofsted rating.

The agency, which also holds Investors in People gold accreditation, works with 29 North-East authorities and is about to open a new office in Billingham, Stockton-on-Tees.

Fostering manager, Lynne Brown said the team was delighted to receive such positive comments from the Ofsted inspector.

“We work very much as a team and respect our foster carers as professionals,” said Ms Brown.

“We also do things which are a bit out of the ordinary – like having a celebration day just for the children of foster carers because we recognise the important role they play in a fostering household.

“We were particularly pleased that the inspector said that children’s needs are at the forefront of our operations and that they are provided with family placements that offer stability, love and safety.”

To celebrate, the team ordered a special celebration cake, portions of which will be sold at a fundraising coffee morning in aid of the Samaritans at Reach Out Care’s new office at Marsh House Avenue, Billingham.

The event will take place from 10am to noon on Friday, February 1.

If you would like to attend and find out more about fostering call the 01325-310009 and select option two.