Tower Hamlets foster and kinship carers honoured at annual celebration

80 foster, kinship and special guardianship carers were celebrated at Tower Hamlets Council’s annual Carers Celebration Evening on Friday 9 October, held during National Kinship Care Week.

The event, held at Tower Hamlets Town Hall, brought together carers, council representatives and staff from across the borough to recognise the exceptional contribution foster and kinship carers make to the lives of children and young people.

Hosted by the council, the evening featured presentations, a special award ceremony and entertainment, as well as thanks to those who provide loving, safe and stable homes for children who need them most.

Carers who have dedicated many years of their lives to supporting children and families were presented with long-service awards, recognising between five and 35 years of service. Collectively, they represented 345 years of care and support for children and young people.

As the event was held during Kinship Care Week, the event shone a spotlight on kinship carers and special guardians – family members and friends who step in to care for children when their parents are unable to do so. As part of the evening, the council formally launched its new Kinship Local Offer, strengthening support available to kinship families across the borough.

Guests also heard from Dr Jahnine David, National Kinship Ambassador for England, who spoke about the importance of recognising and supporting kinship carers and the difference they make to children’s lives.

Executive Mayor of Tower Hamlets, Lutfur Rahman, said:

“Our foster and kinship carers make an extraordinary contribution to our borough. They open their hearts and homes to children and young people, providing stability, security, and a sense of belonging when it is needed most.

“This celebration is an opportunity to recognise their compassion, commitment and dedication, and to thank them for the life-changing difference they make every day. We are incredibly proud of our foster and kinship care community and remain committed to supporting them.”

Cllr Faysal Ahmed, Cabinet Member for Children, Young People, and Life Chances, said:

“This celebration is an opportunity to thank our carers for their dedication, and to recognise the incredible contribution they make to our community. Whether they have just begun their fostering journey or have been providing care for 35 years, their commitment has changed countless lives for the better.

“But we know there are still children and young people who need the support of a loving and stable home. That’s why we’re continuing to encourage more local people to consider fostering. If you have the compassion to make a difference, we would love to hear from you.”

The celebration provided an opportunity for carers to connect with one another, reflect on their achievements and learn more about new support initiatives, including the borough’s Buddy Scheme and fourth Mockingbird Hub, which provide peer support for new and existing foster carers.

The council continues to encourage residents to find out more about fostering and how it can fit in their lives.

To find out more about fostering, including benefits, visit https://www.towerhamlets.gov.uk/lgnl/health__social_care/fostering,_adopting_and_looked/Fostering/Fostering.aspx

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