In Barking and Dagenham there are a number of children in care that need your help to give them a safe and loving home.

The next two weeks mark Fostering Fortnight and Barking and Dagenham’s fostering team are looking for experienced foster carers and also new applicants to join their team to help make a difference to the lives of our borough’s children. 

We know there are plenty of myths when it comes to becoming a foster carer, but the facts are that with Barking and Dagenham as long as you are over the age of 25 with a spare bedroom you can apply to foster. Single, in a secure relationship, married, and of any religious or sexual orientation – it doesn’t matter, call us now.

Mary, an experienced and respected carer, said: “I waited for years and I wish I’d applied sooner. It changes you, your friends and your family, but in a good way. 

“I love being a foster mum, it makes me feel like I’m doing something worthwhile, helping children improve their lives. 

And I love fostering for Barking and Dagenham, it’s the best thing I’ve ever done”

Approved carers at Barking and Dagenham receive excellent training, comprehensive support and a healthy remuneration when looking after a child.

Councillor Maureen Worby, Cabinet Member for Social Care and Health Integration said: “I know these next two weeks mark Fostering Fortnight but we are always looking for people to make a difference to the lives of our children, all year round.

Every child deserves to come home from school to a loving family, so we need you to stop worrying about the ifs and buts and make that initial enquiry”.

For more information on fostering in Barking and Dagenham, visit our fostering web pages or call 020 8227 5988 now.