FOR an abused child, the prospect of being taken into care by social services can be as terrifying as staying put.

But two brothers who have been through the care system prove there can be good times ahead, as well as a prosperous future.

Zimbabwe born Wilf and Ewart Msiska came to England in 2000, aged ten and seven respectively.

Their mother was training to be a nurse and lived in Westcliff for a year before her sons were reunited with her.

But just one year later, they were taken into care.

Wilf, now 20, said: “My mum was studying to be a nurse and worked long hours and nights.

“I had to do the housework, washing, cooking and cleaning.

“If I did it wrong, she would hit me.

“Eventually a friend saw a cut on my head and it was reported to social services.

“I was scared when social services got involved. I didn’t know how to react.

“I was upset to leave my mum and I didn’t know where we were going to end up.

“I worried about who we were going to be living with and how they’d react to us.”

The abuse was mainly focused on Wilf, who cared for his younger brother.

He had to walk him to school and collect him, and couldn’t go out with friends because he couldn’t leave Ewart alone.

But going into care meant a new start for the boys and their time as pupils at Belfairs School, in Leigh, gave them the stability they needed.

Wilf said: “We went into foster care in Eastwood and didn’t know anyone there.

“But we stayed at Belfairs. I liked school at the time, it meant I could get away from stuff at home. I got to relax and not worry.

“I didn’t tell many of my friends we were in care, only close friends.

“They would ask questions and want to know what happened, but they were supportive.”

They lived at their first foster home for four years.

Wilf added: “At first it was weird. Another boy in care had been living there a while, and it felt like we were invading.

“But after a while he got used to us and was more friendly.

“It was alright living there, but we were living with strangers and we had to obey their rules.”

It was at their second foster home that Wilf and Ewart finally really felt settled, and loved too.

They lived with Pat Lucas, 47, who as a single parent to her daughter Eshe welcomed foster children into her home.

Wilf said: “Our experience of foster care was mixed. It was good and bad.

“But with Pat we couldn’t find anything wrong. She was amazing and we still see her once a week.

“Pat is great. In fact her whole family is, and I think of Eshe as my sister.”

With Pat’s help, by encouraging and supporting the pair, they have gone on to achieve real success.

Wilf is now in his final year at the University of Essex’s Southend campus studying sports studies.

He has applied to take a PGCE, so he can teach PE, while Ewart is also undertaking sports studies at South Essex College, in the town. Both play football for Southend Manor and also have part-time jobs.

Wilf works in a sports shop and Ewart at RBS. They also now rent their own flat in Westcliff. It’s great having our own place. We are doing really well,” said Wilf.

Their mother moved back to Zimbabwe and died two years ago.

They visited their native country last year, but now consider Southend their permanent home.

Wilf added: “Our fostering experience was quite stable, really.

“We only had two foster carers and about five social workers. Some people go from home-to-home and have about 20 social workers, but it’s been alright for us.

“I’d say to other kids don’t worry too much. It can work out good if you co-operate and play your part.”

If you can help foster a child, get in touch with Southend Council on 01702 354366, or you can e-mail fostering@southend.gov.uk Alternatively, visit the fostering team at their office, at 283 London Road, Westcliff.