A CAMPAIGN has been launched by Hillingdon Council during national Foster Care Fortnight (May 10-2) to inspire borough people to look after teenagers in need of guidance and stability.

The COVID-19 pandemic has contributed to a rise in mental health issues, and there are currently 337 children and young people in the council’s care, with two thirds of those over the age of 13.

A new video featuring foster carer Daren and Gildo, the young person he fostered, gives an insight into what it’s like to foster a teenager and how rewarding the role can be.

https://youtu.be/UTEY_JciVX4

Daren Carrington, a music producer from Uxbridge, has been fostering for nine years. He said: “I’ve always felt I had the right skills to mentor young people and guide them in the right direction, and my music helps me connect with them on another level.

“My eldest, Gildo, arrived in the UK, aged 15, having never met his birth parents and was forced to live on the streets.

“He was exposed to criminal behaviour and could have gone down a very damaging road, but I helped guide him along the right path and he learnt quickly. Now he’s turned his life around and is what I can only describe as the perfect son.”

Gildo was placed in Daren’s care seven years ago and, despite not speaking English when he arrived, the youngster is now in his second year at university, studying criminology and psychology, and is a semi-professional footballer for Egham Town.

He said: “I had no-one when I moved to the UK, but Daren gave me a family. I can talk to him about anything. Back then, he was like a dad to me - but now that I’m older he’s more like my best friend.” 

Cllr Jane Palmer, cabinet member for health and social care, said: “We’re looking for more kind-hearted people like Daren. If you think you could make a difference to a young person’s life, please contact our fostering team today.” 

Visit www.hillingdon.gov.uk/fostering, call 0800 783 1298, or email fosteringrecruitment@hillingdon.gov.uk