Lewisham foster carers connecting with children through art

"My name is Eva and I have fostered for Lewisham since 2013 with my husband, Francis. I was an interior designer by profession and Francis was an architect. Art has always been an important part of our lives. Before fostering we used to draw and paint in our free time. Since we started fostering we have used art as a way to connect with our children.

I remember our first placement. The young girl had been neglected and as a result had not developed fine motor skills. She was unable to hold a small marker. We bought her large markers, so she was able to grip them. We noticed she never added colours to her pictures. She only ever used black.

Over time you could see her art progress. She was slowly able to hold smaller markers and paint brushes. She started to use colour. It was so heart-warming to take her to the shop and tell her that she could pick out any supplies and colours she wanted. It is so important for young people, especially looked-after children, to be given choices.

We noticed that many of our children were academically behind. They found school frustrating as they were constantly being told they were wrong about something or needed improvement. When you give them paints and markers and say “make what you like” it builds their confidence. There is no right or wrong. They know they won’t be judged and you can praise them.

Importantly, you can talk to them while they are working. Through art young people can express their feelings. Sometimes they can express memories or ideas that they can’t do verbally. In our home, it has been used to communicate.

Fostering is incredibly rewarding. Being part of making a child’s life better is an experience next to none. I would suggest that anyone thinking of fostering consider what passions they have that they could share with a young person. Do you like to cook? Garden? Play sports? Use these things to bond with your child and watch them make that hobby their own. Trust me, it’s worth it."

Fostering support, training and community

Lewisham Council offers all foster carers competitive allowances, support and training. There are a range of different fostering options from short-term, emergency placements to long-term, permanent placements, and social workers speak with potential carers to see what works for their lives and families.

Most importantly, Lewisham foster carers are part of a community made up of truly passionate, caring and experienced social workers and carers who are making a real difference in their local community.

If you think you could make a difference in a child’s life contact Lewisham Council for an informal discussion on 0800 015 0129 or email fosteringrecruitment@lewisham.gov.uk.

Find out more about fostering with Lewisham Council.