THE THURROCK councillor for children’s services was at the Palace of Westminster on Wednesday (24 June) evening to help mark the 275 anniversary of the country’s first dedicated children’s charity.
What is now simply known as Coram was established by Thomas Coram as the Foundling Hospital, London’s first home for babies whose mothers were unable to care for them.
Thomas Coram ran a 19-year campaign which culminated in a Royal Charter signed by King George II in 1739.
Cllr Bukky Okunade, portfolio holder for children’s social care, was at the celebration hosted by the Earl of Listowel and Lord O’Donnell, and said afterwards she was “delighted” to be invited.
She said: “In its modern guise, Coram has done some excellent parenting work supporting Thurrock families.
“Adoption services across the country – not just here in Thurrock – are under all sorts of pressure and to increase Thurrock’s pool and diversity of possible adoption candidates and increasing post-adoption support, we are looking at developing stronger partnerships in the delivery of local adoption services.
“Coram is a leading innovator in this area and Wednesday was a great chance to meet with their executives and discuss ideas.”
