The Coram Foundation was created in 1739 when the physician Thomas Coram established the Foundling Hospital in London. In subsequent years, hundreds of babies whose mothers were unwilling or unable to care for them were admitted to the organisation.
But today, there is no need for such a service; the stigma of illegitimacy has diminished, vulnerable mothers get help and adoption provides for those who need new families. The Foundation has continually adapted its provision in the light of changing needs.
One increasing problem is the arrival in this country of unaccompanied asylum-seeking children. Coram provides a Supported Housing Service for up to 30 young people at risk of being homeless. Some of them will have left or been sent by their families from war-torn countries, such as Afghanistan and Somalia, and often arrive in the UK destitute and alone.
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