Nobody’s Son: Part 2 of 3: All Alex ever wanted was a family of his own

‘Yes.’

‘Good. Because this next lad could be more of a challenge.’

I gave a small laugh. ‘Yes, go on.’

‘Connor is ten years old and the social services are going to court on Thursday to try to bring him into care. His family are well known to the social services. He has a number of half-brothers and sisters who are already being cared for by relatives, and Connor is the last to go. His father is in prison and his mother obviously doesn’t want to lose him, so she is opposing the social services application. Connor has challenging behaviour, but his social worker told me she’s sure it’s because there are no boundaries at home. His behaviour is reasonably manageable at school.’

‘I see,’ I said hesitantly. Carers are expected to take any child referred to them within the age range they are approved to foster. It’s not a pick-and-choose situation – all these children need a home. I was currently approved to foster newborns to sixteen-year-olds, so I would be expected to take Connor. I could say no, but it would have to be for a very good reason.

‘His social worker is aware that you’re a single parent and have two young children,’ Jill continued. ‘Ideally she’d like him to have a male carer but none are free. She said she’s sure that if he goes to an experienced carer who can manage his behaviour he will settle down.’

‘I see,’ I said again. ‘Does he have any history of violence?’ I asked, mindful of Adrian and Paula.

‘At home there have been incidents but not in school. He has no respect for his mother.’

‘And you think Adrian and Paula will be safe? I obviously don’t want to place them in danger.’

‘I think Connor will be hard work to begin with, but with firm and consistent boundaries I’m sure he will soon settle.’ Which wasn’t exactly what I’d asked, but was probably as much reassurance as Jill could offer.

‘All right. When is he arriving?’

‘I’ll speak to his social worker and call you back. Assuming they’re granted the Care Order on Thursday, I expect they’ll want to move him on Thursday evening or Friday.’