|
MAKE A DIFFERENCE FOSTER A CHILD IN HACKNEY
Hackney Council's Adoption and Fostering Unit are looking for people from the African community to become foster carers.
There are fewer than 180 foster carers registered with the Council but around 450 'looked after children' - many of whom are of African heritage.
The Adoption and Fostering Unit (AFU) recruit people from all backgrounds, although right now, would like more carers from the African community in order to reflect the diversity of children in care.
To coincide with national Foster Care Fortnight (14-27 May), the AFU is holding a Fostering Fun Day at the Town Hall Square on May 16 from 12 - 3pm. They want to attract people have space in their home, and their heart, for a foster child.
There are different types of fostering in Hackney: short-term; long-term; caring for disabled children; mother and baby fostering; family and friends or kinship fostering and private fostering. There are also specialist schemes such as Hackney LIFe - Local Intensive Foster Care Programme. Hackney LIFe seeks foster carers for 10-16 year olds who have shown complex and challenging behaviours. It is a six-month programme based on social learning theory.
Adeline Akande has been fostering for two years and recommends it to those considering it. "When you see the faces of the children and you know that they are aching, you just want to cuddle them and make them happy. If you can make a child smile then that is your reward and a joy."
Fellow foster carer Barbara Bullock adds: "You also get to learn about someone's cultural background if they are from a different country. It's so interesting it's like going back to school in a way and it all helps you understand the child more."
Cllr Rita Krishna, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People's Services says: "Foster carers are extremely important people in the lives of children who come into our care, to encourage children to believe in themselves and make the most of their lives.
If you even think that you could do it, do find out more."
Those wishing to enquire about fostering can attend the Fun Day or one of the Adoption and Fostering Unit's Open Days. The next Open Day is on 24 May, from 4-8pm at the Adoption and Fostering Resource Centre, 186 Homerton High Street. You can also download an application form from the Hackney Council w e b s i t e :
www.hackney.gov.uk.
|
