Foster carers are urgently needed in Enfield, as the COVID-19 outbreak has resulted in fewer people coming forward to look after vulnerable children.
As fostering fortnight enters its second week, Enfield Council is encouraging more people to consider fostering and has in place alternatives for the usual face-to-face training and assessment stages while social distancing measures remain in place.
Enfield Council’s Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, Cllr Rick Jewell, said: “The need for carers is ongoing. COVID-19 has not put a stop to the fact that we need people to come forward and become carers. While the coronavirus pandemic has, quite naturally, made people nervous, we think this is a really good time to start thinking about new opportunities. Many people may be in a position to reassess their priorities or are having to think about exploring new careers. If you think you can offer stability and consistent care in a nurturing environment, please do get in contact. We will support you every step of the way.”
Fostering with the Council will also ensure that Enfield children are kept in their local area and sibling groups are less likely to be split up. These are important factors in improving life chances.
Nas, who lives near Enfield Lock, is a foster carer of four siblings and a mother of three children. She has seen an enormous personal benefit to working as a foster carer.
She said: “I can see I am making a lasting impact on these children’s lives. It has been a confusing time for them all during the lockdown but I have come up with lots of games and strategies to keep them occupied and happy. Enfield Council has also been very supportive. It just goes to show that we can inspire and care, whatever the circumstances. I recommend fostering to everybody - it’s the best thing I have done.”
If you are interested in fostering, please get in touch with Enfield Council's Fostering Service on 020 8379 2831 or email fostering@enfield.gov.uk. For more information, visit Fostering.