Four Foster Carers for Birmingham Children’s Trust have been recognised in the latest New Year Honours list.
Receiving medals of the Order of the British Empire (BEM) for services to fostering are:
Jane Cook and Christopher Hall (pictured above) who have been fostering since 1996 and are committed to their fostering role. They provide a high level of nurturing care and opportunities to promote positive outcomes for children in their care. The young people currently in placement all speak highly of their carers. Jane and Christopher also continue to support two previous foster children who have remained living with them and see themselves as part of the family. This evidences the sense of belonging the carers nurture. The household is a welcoming and relaxed place to visit. It offers a secure base for children and young people to develop, learn and have fun.
Samina and Javaid Iqbal who have been fostering for 18 years and have cared for 57 children, including several unaccompanied asylum-seeking young people. Many of the now young adults who they previously fostered remain in regular contact with the carers. Some of them are regular visitors to the household and still view Samina and Javaid very much as their family.
Javaid and Samina Iqbal.
Javaid and Samina were awarded the Trust’s Foster Carer of the Year Award in 2021. The were recognised for their continued commitment to fostering and, most of all, the commitment and care they provide to the most vulnerable children of Birmingham.
Samina said:
“It’s a privilege to be recognised in our role as Foster Carers for Birmingham Children’s Trust. It’s very much appreciated that our hard work and dedication for the past 18 years has been rewarded.
Thank you to all our fostering family, Birmingham Children’s Trust and our support network.”
A huge congratulations to Jane, Christopher, Samina and Javaid. What an achievement and positive way to start 2023!
