Voices of Foster Carers

My Story - Daisy

When I was just two years old, my parents made the decision to begin a new journey, a fostering journey.

At the time, I didn't really understand what fostering was because I was so young. However, as I grew older and began to understand more about it, I realised just how much I loved being part of a fostering family.

So, what is fostering?

The definition of fostering is providing temporary care for a child in a safe and stable home. But for me, fostering is so much more than that. It's about giving a child love, helping them feel safe and secure, showing them kindness, and giving them the childhood that every child deserves.

If you're someone who has always wanted to foster but feels you should wait until your own children are older, I would say: go for it. Speaking from experience, it may be confusing for your children at first, but they will learn to understand it and, in many cases, love it too. Don't let having your own children stop you from making a difference.

There is also a great deal of support available for the children of foster carers. One example is Kids of Carers, an amazing support group for children whose parents foster. The group gives children the chance to meet others in similar situations, take part in fun activities, and receive support when they need it.

Some of the activities we have enjoyed include:

• Stanley Head 
• Making pizzas
• Bowling
• Swimming
• Music activities

And so much more.

Like anything worthwhile, fostering comes with its challenges. For me, the biggest challenge is when a child moves on from our family. Whether they have stayed with us for a few days or a few years, they become part of our family and saying goodbye is never easy.

However, the reward is knowing that we have helped a child during an important time in their life and given them the chance of a brighter future. Seeing the positive difference fostering can make is what makes it all worthwhile.

Fostering is so much more than a job. It's a way of life. It's an everyday challenge, but most importantly, it is one of the most rewarding things a family can do.