After working as an electrician for 33 years, I reached a point where I felt ready for a new direction—something meaningful, something that would challenge me in a different way. My wife and I had talked about fostering for years, and eventually we made the decision to take the plunge and see where it would lead us.
One of the biggest responsibilities of a foster carer is keeping everyone in the home safe. The adults, the children and other family members.
To do this, you need to consider the risks involved in caring for vulnerable children.
"Why I do what I do" Why I'm a Foster Carer / Work In Foster Care.
I can remember with absolute clarity the moment I realised that I would probably spend my working life with children, and more specifically looked after children.
The older age group are often dismissed as being too difficult and too much trouble. People assume that they will come along with attitude and crime and anti-social behaviours. It is true that they might, but to think that the challenges they present are somehow greater than a baby, a toddler or a 7-year-old is widely misplaced. Don’t expect the worst.
Long term fostering
Long-term fostering, or permanency requires a special type of dedication and commitment.
We always work really hard to make a good match between children and the families they are going to live with.
Matching is like finding the right puzzle pieces that fit together. Every child is unique—with their own personality, background, experiences, and needs. Every foster family is unique too—with different skills, lifestyles, routines, and strengths. Matching is about finding the best fit between the two.
Respite fostering is a special kind of care that offers children a safe, loving place to stay for short periods — often over weekends or school holidays. It gives their full-time foster carers a chance to rest and recharge, while the children enjoy a change of scenery, new experiences, and the comfort of another caring adult.
Becoming a foster carer is a life-changing journey – one that can transform a child’s future and enrich your own life. All across the UK, children of all ages need safe, loving homes where they can feel part of a family.
Fostering a child is one of the most meaningful and life-affirming choices anyone can make. But if you’ve ever looked into it, you may have come across the term independent fostering agencies...
Foster Care Fortnight 2024 is running from the 13th to the 26th of May, the theme of this year's event is Fostering Moments, an opportunity to celebrate the moments that define fostering journeys.
Life with adult children can leave you feeling empty inside, and in the family home. Fill the gaps by becoming a foster carer.