Hounslow couple celebrates 50 years of local fostering
Dean and Nora’s journey as foster carers began in the 1980s. Since then, they have opened their doors to more than 90 young people in the London Borough of Hounslow. As Foster Care Fortnight begins this May, their story serves as a testament to the enduring impact of long-term commitment to the borough’s youth and the vital role of the local fostering community.
Five decades and 90 children in the London Borough of Hounslow
Dean and Nora are among Hounslow’s longest-serving active carers. Over nearly 50 years, they have provided a stable home environment for dozens of children, ranging from short-term placements to long-term care. To mark Foster Care Fortnight, the couple is sharing their experiences through a series of videos, recounting memories of a career that has spanned generations of local families.
Their motivation remains rooted in the progress they see in the children they support. By offering a consistent presence, they have helped nearly a hundred young people navigate difficult transitions. The couple’s longevity in the role provides a rare perspective on how the fostering landscape has evolved while the fundamental need for a safe, local home remains unchanged.
The vital importance of keeping local children in the borough
A central theme in Dean and Nora’s advocacy is the necessity of “in-house” fostering. When children are placed through Independent Fostering Agencies (IFAs), they are often moved to locations outside of their home borough. Nora points out that this can lead to children being “taxied in and taxied out,” disrupting their sense of belonging.
Dean echoes these concerns, noting that moving a child out of Hounslow often means severing ties with their schools, friends, and extended family members like aunts or uncles. Keeping children within the London Borough of Hounslow ensures they maintain access to their existing support networks and familiar environments, which is often crucial for their emotional well-being and educational stability.
Financial support and professional fees for Hounslow carers
Fostering is increasingly recognized as a professional path that requires significant skill and dedication. Hounslow Council has structured its support to reflect this, with carers now eligible to earn between £408 and £848 per week. This figure is determined based on the specific needs of the child or children in their care.
This weekly payment is comprised of two distinct parts: a fostering allowance and a professional fee. The allowance is designed to cover the day-to-day costs of looking after a child, including food, clothing, and travel. The professional fee acts as an income payment, acknowledging the expertise and time foster carers contribute to the community. This financial framework is intended to make fostering a viable option for a wider range of residents who may have the heart to care but require financial stability to do so.
Meet the team at the Treaty Centre this May
For those considering following in Dean and Nora’s footsteps, Hounslow Council is hosting a series of recruitment events at the Treaty Centre. The fostering team will be available from 10am to 4pm during two windows: 11-16 May and 18-22 May. These sessions are designed for informal conversations where residents can ask questions about the application process and the requirements of the role.
Prospective carers will also have the opportunity to meet existing Hounslow foster carers on specific dates, including 12, 14, 15, 18, 19, 20, and 22 May. Hearing firsthand accounts from those currently in the role can provide valuable insight into the daily realities of fostering. Whether you are interested in short-term emergency placements or long-term care, these sessions offer a direct starting point for joining the Hounslow fostering community.
Source: London Borough of Hounslow
