Lewisham has marked the start of Foster Care Fortnight (12-25 May) with a campaign to find 100 more foster carers over the next three years.
The Mayor of Lewisham, Sir Steve Bullock, joined children from Holbeach Primary School and current Lewisham foster carers to kick-start the launch at the Power League in Catford on 12 May.
Sir Steve said: “Our foster carers are very important to us and to the children whose lives have changed for the better because of the safe and caring homes they live in. We’re very proud of the unconditional support they give to some of the most vulnerable children in our community."
“Sadly, there is a shortage of carers, not just in Lewisham but on a national level. So we’re asking anyone who thinks they can provide a home for a child in need to find out more about fostering in Lewisham.”
Lewisham currently has over 120 foster carers looking after 155 local children. Carers come from all walks of life – they can be single, married, or divorced, with or without children, be tenants or homeowners, have a disability and may be gay or lesbian.
Foster carers are given an allowance to cover the cost of caring for a child and receive training and ongoing support from Lewisham Council.
Jina Frimpong, from Catford, has fostered over 20 children over the last 11 years. She said: “Fostering can be really challenging but it’s also very rewarding. I just want to help children and this is a great way to do that.”
Deborah Aquart, from Downham, has been fostering for almost a year. She said: “I foster because the children need me. It’s a really rewarding experience and I would recommend others to do the same if they can.”
Lewisham particularly needs more foster carers for older teenagers, siblings and children with disabilities. The borough also has a general shortage of carers from a white ethnic background.
With 100 more foster carers, Lewisham will be better able to support vulnerable children who need a safe and caring home.
Anyone interested in becoming a foster carer in Lewisham should call 020 8314 6655 or email info.fostering@lewisham.gov.uk. Alternatively, come along to the next information session on Thursday 5 June from 10am-3pm at Catford Library, Laurence House, Catford, SE6 4RU.