I WAS absolutely delighted to join our foster carers at a barn dance event on Sunday.

Children need great parents, and I got to meet some great parents that day.

Our carers are already busy people, doing a vital job, but they have also given up a substantial part of their free time to run events like this as “the one team” to support carers and children.

We have increased foster care pay this year; we have given both carers and those in care a place on the corporate parenting committee to have their voices heard as we make decisions, and in the coming year, I want to do even more.

I would say to anyone thinking about fostering, you have a great network of dedicated and diligent carers in Thurrock, and elected members working hard to shape the service around carers and children (even if we are not prepared to take part in the dancing!).

So please make contact with us!

CLLR JAMES HALDEN Conservative member on the corporate parenting committee.