The vital contribution the children of foster carers make in welcoming fostered children into their homes was recognised by Enfield Council during Sons and Daughters Month.
During October's awareness month, fostering services across the UK have been celebrating the valuable role children play in ensuring successful fostering placements.
Many people say that the potential impact on their birth children is one of the major barriers to becoming a foster carer. However, Enfield Council met a number of families this month, including their sons and daughters, who said they were happy being part of a fostering family.
Japhet whose parents have just started fostering, said that he feels he can be someone his foster-brother can relate to, while Vashisht and Sara both spoke fondly of the support network available to families and the enduring friendships they have made. Meanwhile sisters Meriem, Hadjer and Somaya are incredibly excited to have a young baby in their home. Keep an eye out for November’s Our Enfield magazine, where we will be featuring their stories in more detail.
Enfield Council’s Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, Cllr Achilleas Georgiou, said: “The sons and daughters of foster carers play an important role in making successful fostering placements. Their contribution is valued highly by Enfield Council’s fostering services and we’d like to take this opportunity to say thank you. If you have considered welcoming a child into your home but are concerned about the impact it will have on your family, come and speak to our team who can talk you through the process.”
The Council is holding two information sessions for people interested in becoming foster carers. Find out more on 13 November or 19 December, 2-4pm at Triangle House, 305-313 Green Lanes, Palmers Green, N13 4YB. Find out more details on fostering.
Enfield Council also produces a newsletter on education and children’s services.