Shagufta Asam began caring for vulnerable youngsters in 1991, opening up her home in Ilford to look after children going through difficult times.
She was awarded an MBE in the New Year’s Honours List and had no idea her Redbridge Council supervisor had nominated her for the award.
“I got a letter from the Cabinet Office and was just shocked,” Shagufta said.
“Fostering is just what I love doing, not something I expect to be awarded for.”
The mum-of-four began fostering with her own family when her youngest was a baby and eldest just eight years old.
“There was always talk about the need for carers for children, so we decided to do something about it,” Shagufta said.
“I had my own young family at the time but felt I wouldn’t be taking on more than I was already doing anyway.”
She has taken in children from babies to late teens, whether for emergency overnight or long term, and is currently looking after three teenage boys.
“My first ever foster was a baby boy we collected straight from the hospital.
“We looked after him for 18 months before he was adopted and have stayed in touch to this day. He’s all grown up and living in Australia.”
The story of her MBE is being used by Redbridge Council in its New Year campaign for more foster parents.
Council leader Kam Rai said: “What Shagufta has given in love and support for vulnerable children has a lasting impact on all those she has cared for over the years.
“We always need more foster carers and volunteers who might be able to help to get in touch with our fostering service.”
Shagufta has endorsed the campaign, adding: “If anyone is thinking about fostering — just go for it. Fostering can be life changing for the child and for you too. All you need is a spare room.”
Anyone interested in fostering and would like to find out more can go to redbridge.gov.uk/adult-and-childrens-services/fostering.
