Hillingdon Council is holding a number of events throughout March to encourage residents to learn more about becoming a foster carer.

The council is looking for people who have the time and space in their life to care for someone else’s child, and is encouraging residents to come and meet a member of the fostering team for an informal chat to find out more.

Alan and Lesley Deville, both 54 from Uxbridge, have been fostering children for 12 years.

Lesley said: “We didn’t know what to expect from fostering, but it’s so rewarding to watch the children change during their stay with us.

“They arrive at our house feeling afraid, frightened and withdrawn, but over time we watch them flourish and grow.

“By the time the children leave us they are happy and content, and that’s when we know we’ve played a part in giving them back some of the childhood they’ve missed out on.”

Lesley added: “The children enhance our lives in every way and they bring us so much joy and laughter, we will foster for the rest of our lives. If you’re thinking about fostering, just take the plunge!

“It’s the best job we’ve ever had and we just couldn’t imagine going back to work in an office now.”

Anyone interested in fostering will need to have a spare bedroom and experience of looking after children.

They will be supported in their work and can receive a generous allowance up to £415.72 per week.

David Simmonds, Cabinet Member for Education and Children's Services, said: “Fostering is one of the most rewarding things you can do, and there are many children and young people in Hillingdon who would benefit from your time and support.

“So whether you’re looking to fill an empty nest or you want to help change a child’s life; please do come along to one of our events in the borough and find out more.”

The events taking place are:

Friday 3 March from 10am to 4pm at Waitrose, Ruislip, HA4 7DS
Tuesday 7 March from 10am to 4pm at the Pavilions Shopping Centre, Uxbridge, UB8 1LN
Friday 10 March from 9.45am to 12pm at Yiewsley Library, UB7 7BE
Monday 13 March from 10am to 4pm at Botwell Green Sports and Leisure Centre in Hayes, UB3 2HW
Tuesday 14 March from 6.30pm to 8.30pm at the Civic Centre, Uxbridge, UB8 1UW