Meet Amy and Stephen - they decided to start fostering because, as a placement worker, Amy wanted to do even more for the children she saw in need. When they found themselves moving into a home with extra space, the timing felt perfect. Now, they’re sharing their experience so far - the challenges, the joys, and everything in between!
What first drew you to fostering?
"I was first drawn to fostering after working as a placement broker for a neighbouring local authority. Seeing the number of children needing safe and secure homes, and the limited number of carers available - especially for older children - really shocked me.
“I would come home some days and talk to Stephen, wishing we could take in a child ourselves, particularly when we were struggling to find carers for them. Stephen kept saying, 'Well, let’s do it, let’s find out more about it all.' I knew then that fostering was something I wanted to consider once we moved house and had extra space."
How did you find the application process?
"The application process was brilliant, and we felt at ease throughout the whole thing. I think this is really important, as so much of your personal life is explored.
“Natalie, who was our assessing social worker, took the time to really get to know us and our family, and made us feel incredibly safe when discussing sensitive subjects and information. She worked around our schedule so that we could complete meetings and assessments at times that suited our family. We had in-person meetings and Teams calls in the evenings once our children were in bed, which made the whole process feel much more relaxed, and she got [to know] the real ‘us’."
What has your experience been like so far?
"Our first 18 months as foster carers have been incredible. We have supported six children already, all of whom have been very different placements, ranging from 10 months old to 13 years old.
“We have laughed, we have cried (a lot of happy tears), we have given a thousand hugs, and we have built the trust of some of the most vulnerable young people.
“To become that person they rely on, who is always going to be there for them when they need you, and to see their face light up when they see you at the end of the school day - that feeling is just amazing."
How have your birth children found becoming a foster family?
"It has been lovely to see how our own children have blossomed throughout our fostering journey, especially our eldest, who is now six. He speaks so positively about his experience, especially at school, and loves to tell people why we foster and how he helps the children who come to join our family. He has become such a considerate and caring young boy.
“A little note from my six-year-old son about what he enjoys most about being part of a fostering family: ‘I like new boys and girls coming to our home. Sometimes they are really scared and upset, but I like to show them where things are in our house. I choose them some toys and help my mum decorate their room. I like to play with them and help them feel happy living with our family.’"
Are there any memorable fostering moments that stand out to you?
"One of the most memorable moments was taking one of our foster children on her first holiday abroad. The excitement and being able to share that experience with her was so heartwarming, and that memory will stay with us forever.
“Another memory that makes us feel incredibly proud is from our recent placement. The girls, aged eight and 13, came to us in September and shared that they had never had a nice Christmas and felt very apprehensive about the whole festive period. Seeing their faces on Christmas morning as they came downstairs and opened presents they had put on their lists to Santa was incredibly emotional for us all, and they were so grateful.”
What would you say to someone who is considering fostering?
"I would encourage anyone considering becoming a foster carer to take the leap.
“It is the most rewarding thing I have ever done, and I can’t imagine not being a foster carer now. Even during the tough times, seeing how much your help and support mean to these children makes it all worth it. The support you receive is second to none, and the fostering community is incredibly welcoming and supportive. You will never be alone on your journey.
“I have definitely become much more patient and more aware of how children are feeling on a deeper level, which has positively influenced our own parenting. Stephen has grown in confidence when working with professionals and understanding that things can change quickly within a placement.”
Is there room in your life to provide a loving home for a child in need? We have an incredible fostering community of 130+ families and we'd love to have you! Book a call back with our friendly team to find out what fostering could look like for your family!
