Fostering Target Brings Hope for Thousands of Children
I have witnessed firsthand the profound rewards of fostering and wholeheartedly recommend it, writes Dr Krish Kandiah. In response to your editorial on fostering reform and the need to address excess profits, I recall a poignant memory: a midnight feast that went uneaten. Four children, recently removed from their home, sat shellshocked in my lounge, too traumatised to trust us or indulge in the cookies, doughnuts, and crisps we offered. It took days before they felt safe enough to enjoy such treats.
The Privilege of Fostering
Over the past two decades, fostering has been one of the greatest privileges for my wife and me. Against a backdrop of unimaginable trauma and betrayal by those meant to care for them, we have observed how children, when provided with consistent and persistent love, support, and compassion, can begin to rebuild their shattered lives. We have seen many children successfully return home, while others have embarked on new chapters through adoption. Three children have become permanent members of our family, bringing immense joy, though it means our home is now full.
It is heartbreaking to hear of children in care being placed in distant counties, separated from siblings, or housed in residential settings without crucial family support. This underscores the urgent need for more foster families to step forward and provide stable, loving environments.
Ambitious Political Leadership
I am greatly encouraged that fostering is finally receiving ambitious political leadership. Josh MacAlister, the children’s minister, has set a target of creating 10,000 new approved foster care places. He helpfully cites the Homes for Ukraine scheme as inspiration for a transformative shift in fostering recruitment, demonstrating how community-driven efforts can achieve significant change.
With robust support for children, foster carers, and children’s services, I am optimistic that these 10,000 foster care places can be realised. Every child deserves a family—a sanctuary where they feel safe, seen, and loved. Playing even a small role in someone’s life in this manner can make an enormous difference. Having experienced the deep fulfilment of fostering, I highly advocate for others to consider this vital commitment.
Dr Krish Kandiah
Henley-on-Thames, Oxfordshire
