A couple who have been fostering for Ealing since 2016 have been named Ealing Council’s Foster Carers of the Year, at its annual foster care awards ceremony.
Donna and Tim Clapham have looked after several children, including siblings and were recognised for their exceptional care, patience and perseverance.
Carolyn Fair, the council’s director of children and families, presented the award. She said: “Donna and Tim have looked after children who have been challenging, but have soon become settled once in their care. They have a very down-to-earth attitude which has helped the children to relate to them very well.”
Carolyn explained that they have shown a total commitment to the children they have looked after. “Throughout the challenges and difficulties they have faced, they have always put the needs of the children first,” she said. “For example they have ensured that the children have remained in their current school, even though in one instance it was a long way from where they live. They have ensured that the children have received a stable as possible home with them and have worked with other professionals to best meet the needs of the children.”
Donna and Tim have been praised by many people, including a young person they looked after and an adopter who adopted a child they used to care for.
Donna said: “We are so happy to receive this award. We always wanted to become foster carers and to help as many children as possible. There are so many children who need to be given a chance in life and to be able to provide them with a safe, loving home is an amazing thing to do. We would say to anyone who has been thinking about becoming a foster carer to get in touch. You really can make such a difference to the lives of local children and young people.”
The annual awards ceremony is held by the council to recognise its foster carers for their hard work and commitment. This year’s event was held at the Double Tree Hilton Hotel in Ealing. The event was attended by more than 150 people. Foster carers received a certificate and those who have achieved five, 15, 20 and 30 years of service were also presented with specially engraved glassware.
The next fostering and adoption information session will be held on Monday, 27 January 2020, 7-8.30pm at Perceval House, (staff side entrance on Longfield Avenue) New Broadway, Uxbridge Road, London, W5 2BY.
For further information contact Ealing Fostering and Adoption Connections on freephone 0800 731 6550, email fosteradopt@ealing.gov.uk or visit www.ealingfosteradopt.co.uk
