Havering foster carers have been celebrated at a special awards ceremony to thank them for their commitment and dedication to the children in their care.
The special event was held to recognise and celebrate nearly 100 foster carers at a ceremony hosted by Leader of the Council, Cllr Keith Prince and Havering's Fostering Service.
In his welcome speech, Cllr Prince, said every foster carer is “seen, valued and deeply appreciated” for the work they do in supporting local children.
He said that the Council was responsible for more than 620 children and young people in its care and that it was important to shine a light on the commitment of foster carers, who provide “reassurance at moments of uncertainty, routine when life has felt unsettled, encouragement when confidence has been knocked, and a home when children need it most”.
He said: “As Leader of the Council, I want to be clear that our 91 foster carers are central to our ambition for children. We want children to grow up, wherever possible, in loving family environments, close to their schools, communities, brothers and sisters, friends and trusted adults.
“We want them to know that they matter, that their future matters, and that their Council, their carers and their community are standing alongside them.”
Foster carers were recognised across three award categories: Commitment to Children, Milestone and Length of Service, and Special Recognition.
Milestone awards were presented to foster carers who have been fostering for up to 30 years, while others were recognised for having cared for more than 50 children during their fostering journey.
Also in attendance were Cllr Kevin Gill, Cabinet Member for Children; Cllr Graham Day, Cabinet Member for Adults and Public Health; and Youth Champion Cllr Khuram Amin, who presented certificates and awards.
In his speech, Cllr Keith Prince encouraged everyone to become ambassadors for fostering, highlighting the importance of word of mouth in encouraging others to consider fostering.
He added: “Thank you for the trust you build, the stability you offer, the advocacy you provide, and the love and care you show. Thank you to your families as well — including birth children, wider relatives and support networks — because fostering is often a whole-family commitment.”
He also praised and thanked Havering staff for their work in supporting children and families through complex and challenging circumstances.
The Council’s commitment to supporting children in care is reflected in the Administration’s 100-Day Plan, which places children, families and communities at the heart of its priorities.
Anyone interested in becoming a foster carer can find out more.