Social workers appeal to family of baby abandoned in Dalston to come forward

Social workers in Hackney are again appealing for the family of a newborn baby left at a Dalston vicarage in January to come forward.

Six-week-old Edward, named after the postal worker who found him on Sandringham Road when he was just hours old, has been living with foster carers and now weighs 8lb 8oz.

With legal proceedings over Edward’s future care underway, his social worker Jane has put out a message to the family.

She said: “Edward is a very sweet, calm and content baby.  He is very alert with bright bluey, grey eyes. He is trying to smile and makes noises, which is very cute to watch.  

“I want his family to know that he is well looked after and very much loved, but I would really like you to be a part of that, even if it is just so that he knows who you are when he’s older. 

“It is really important that Edward knows about his history and where he came from as this will help him as he grows and develops.

“We’re very keen for you or anyone in Edward’s family to come forward and talk to us.

“We will need to begin thinking about his long term future soon and even if you are not in a position to care for him, it is important that we are able to explore every possible option for him.”

The council has been asked by the courts to publicise the fact that Edward’s family will be entitled to free legal aid.

A ruling over his long-term care is expected to be made by April.

Edward’s mum or family should contact the council’s social workers on 020 8356 5500 or Hackney’s out-of-hours children’s social care emergency duty line on 020 8356 2710