Robert Glover shares a tribute to Lord Herbert Laming, who has died aged 89. Lord Laming was one of the most influential figures in UK social work and the former chairman of trustees and patron of Care for Children.
Lord Laming (left) with Robert Glover (right), Founder and Executive Director of Care for Children
Lord Laming had a long association with Care for Children, serving as chairman of the board of trustees and later as a patron. He was a passionate advocate for the charity's work to reform child welfare systems and promote family-based care for children who would otherwise grow up in institutions. His wisdom, generosity and unwavering commitment made an immeasurable contribution to the charity and to the lives of countless vulnerable children.
To me, he was also a dear friend and mentor. His encouragement, wise counsel and steadfast support shaped not only my professional life but also my personal life and reached into my family. He was a giant in his profession and made an extraordinary contribution to improving the lives of vulnerable children around the world.
He leaves a great gap in my life, and I know he will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him and working alongside him. We give thanks for his remarkable life and for the lasting legacy he leaves through the countless children whose lives have been transformed by his vision, leadership and dedication.
Lord Laming exemplified what it means to be a servant trustee. He never sought to manage or control; instead, he empowered others. He understood the distinct responsibilities of governance and executive leadership, providing wise oversight without interference, accountability without constraint, and encouragement without seeking recognition.
As chairman, he created an environment in which you felt trusted, supported and equipped to attempt what often seemed impossible. He asked the right questions, offered wise counsel and quietly ensured that governance remained strong while allowing leadership to flourish. His confidence in others inspired confidence in themselves.
His humility drew people to him. You wanted to sit with him, listen to him and learn from the depth of his wisdom, experience and discernment. He never imposed his authority, but instead exercised it with grace. His gentleness brought a steady calm that made people feel secure, especially in difficult moments. Even when facing complex decisions, his quiet strength gave reassurance that every issue would be approached with fairness, integrity and compassion.
Lord Laming understood that the highest calling of a trustee is to steward the mission faithfully. He embodied the principles of good governance—clarity of purpose, accountability, integrity, transparency and servant-hearted leadership—always keeping the welfare of vulnerable children and the long-term health of the charity above personal preference or ambition.
Lord Laming’s legacy is not simply found in the organisations he helped govern, but in the leaders he encouraged, the confidence he instilled, and the countless lives that have been transformed because he chose to lead as a servant.
