Inspirational Mum of the Year 2009, Vali Bugden

Vali Bugden, 62, from London has been named Tesco magazine's 'Inspirational Mum of the Year 2009'

During the last 20 years, Vali has fostered children from all walks of life, many whose parents were simply unable to cope.

This generous mum has given troubled children the chance to see how different life can be with love and affection.

Showing never-ending patience and understanding, Vali refused to give up on any of the children in her care, even when others had before her.

Caring mum

From a little boy who witnessed his father being knifed, to refugees and children with disabilites, Vali has shown them all equal kindness. And this caring mum has such an impact on the children she fosters that she is still in contact with many of them.

Such as Emma Johnson, now 23, who was 15 years old when she arrived at Vali's house for the weekend, and ended up staying two years. Emma, who had been in trouble with the police, credits Vali with turning her life around.

Even when Vali was diagnosed with breast cancer two-and-a-half years ago, her first thoughts were of the children in her care. Rather than take a much-deserved break, this dedicated mum was more concerned about disrupting the lives of the children she was fostering at the time.

On top of all of this, kind-hearted Vali also moved her mother, who was very ill, into her own house so she could be on hand to look after her. Sadly she died last year
aged 88.

Inspiring others

Vali is a true inspiration to her own children, Stefan, 37, and Zoe, 30, who are themselves foster carers in their own right. And Vali, who trained as a counsellor, also works part-time as a teachers' assistant in a special needs school, as well as training foster carers.

'I just want to make things better,' she says. 'My children have become better people for me fostering. I'm so proud of them for doing the same. We've provided children with a taste of family life, giving them routine and stability. Hopefully it proves it's never too late for children to change with the right encouragement.

'Fostering enriches your life and my door will always be open.'

For further press enquiries please contact:

Vali Bugden – Tesco magazine's Inspirational Mum of the Year

Vali Bugden – Tesco magazine's Inspirational Mum of the Year

Fostering enriches your life and my door
will always
be open.

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