AT the beginning of Foster Care Fortnight, which begins today (Monday, 11 May) Thurrock's leading councillor for children's services has spoken of the pride he has for those who take on the responsibility of caring.

Cllr James Halden, cabinet member for children's and adults services, says: "I'm so proud and grateful to our foster carers who support the children of Thurrock. Every Thursday as I clap for the NHS and other key workers, I clap for our foster carers who continue to keep children safe throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.

"I'm struck by the extraordinary things our foster carers do, they are local people who have opened up their homes and hearts to children."

Foster Care Fortnight is a national campaign to raise the profile of fostering, its benefits and how it transforms the lives of children and young people.

Cllr Halden added: "Thurrock Fostering are always looking for more foster carers who can care for those most in need, it's such a rewarding thing to do.

"The team welcome people from all backgrounds to contact them and find out more, whether they are in a relationship, already have children, are single and whatever their sexuality. You don't have to live in Thurrock to become a foster carer with us. Full training, support and a generous financial package are provided by the council to support you as a foster carer.

"If you could foster for Thurrock, I encourage you to reach out to the team for more information. The contribution Foster Carers, Social Workers and others in the fostering community make to our borough every day is vital but often under-appreciated."

One of those who has stepped up, spoke about the way fostering has proved beneficial.

"Having fun and enjoying life"

The single parent carer said: "I have been a foster carer with Thurrock Fostering for nearly three years now. My approach to fostering is to welcome children into our home, allow them to develop and become confident and raise their self-esteem through learning life skills and improving their access to education while having fun and enjoying life.

"I truly hope that all the children that have been placed with me have gained as much as I have. Fostering is a fabulous way to give a child an opportunity to find their forever home – I encourage you to give it a try, you won't look back but only forward to a more fulfilling rewarding life."

A young person in care in Thurrock said: "It took me a long time to settle when I came into care however my foster carer understood my circumstances and they never gave up on me. Leaving my past behind me has been so difficult, it's taken three or four years for me to get back on my feet and I really appreciate the love and support I have been given to help shape my future and the person I am today, I am forever grateful to my foster family."

Thurrock Fostering is still accepting applications during the COVID-19 pandemic. For more information or to make an enquiry click this here.