A mother of three adult children found the perfect remedy for her empty nest syndrome – fostering a young person.
Manchester City Council worker Hannah Ikhlas, 49, realised her heart – as well as her Cheadle home – had extra space. With three grown children now living independently, there was a sense of emptiness.
Hannah knew that many children across Manchester lacked things often taken for granted such as security, stability, and support. In November 2023, Hannah decided she wanted to make a difference -a choice that would transform her life and make a lasting impact on both her and her foster child’s futures.
A life changing journey began. With the full support of the council’s fostering team and social workers throughout the process, Hannah was able to proceed.
Hannah said: “It’s not always easy, but if you have the heart to give, the rewards are immeasurable. It’s a chance to make a lasting impact and create a safe, loving home for a young person who needs it.”
Last month new figures from Ofsted showed a decline in the number of foster families in the UK for the third year in a row.
The data shows 6% fewer fostering households since 2021.
The Fostering Network has estimated that a further 6,500 fostering families are needed in England to ensure all fostered children can live with the right family for them.
According to the charity, Foster carers are leaving for three main reasons – inadequate financial remuneration, lack of support from their fostering service, and lack of respect for their role.
In the new Autumn budget announced just prior to the Ofsted report, £4 million of new funding was allocated for regional foster recruitment hubs- central homes which provide support and guidance to other foster families. The additional funding should generate new foster placements.
Councillor Julie Reid, executive member for Children, Early Years and Young People at Manchester City Council, hopes more people like Hannah will make the commitment to change a child’s life forever.
Coun Reid said: “We have a robust process and supportive fostering team that ensures potential foster carers and children are well-matched into loving and safe homes for them to thrive.
“Taking the leap into fostering can come with challenges, however, it also comes with a great personal reward in pouring into a child or young person’s life knowing you have the full support and access to the fostering team’s expertise throughout your journey.”
To find out more on how to become a foster carer, please visit Fostering.
Feature Image: Three children holding hands standing on grasses. Photo by Jeremy Bishop on Unsplash
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