From Banking to Building Futures: David’s Journey as a Foster Carer

“This is the happiest part of my life. I regretted not being a parent, and now I get to make a difference every day.” – David

At Foster Cares Ltd, we know fostering is about real impact. It is about giving young people stability and a chance to shine. Whether you are a busy parent, a professional with a demanding job, or an empty-nester looking to give back, our foster carers show it is possible to fit fostering into your life.

Meet David, who left a 30-year banking career to change young lives and his own through fostering.

Taking the First Step

David spent over 30 years at a major bank but had always thought about fostering. “I assumed you had to be retired,” he says. A fostering stall at work changed that, showing him he could balance both.

After his first agency experienced difficulties, he transferred to Foster Cares Ltd. “The transition was smooth. They used my existing paperwork, and the Skills to Foster training gave me practical tools. The team checked in regularly, so I never felt alone.”

By late 2019, David was ready for placements.

Finding the Right Fit

David’s first placement was three young siblings, arriving just before the 2020 lockdown. “The social worker drove off, and I thought, ‘What do I do now?’” Managing their energy during lockdown as a single carer was challenging, and David realised younger children were not the right fit for him.

Then came three teenagers, which he had not expected. “I used to think teenagers would be difficult,” he admits. But after virtual introductions, they settled in well. “They were lovely at home. Some had school challenges, but not with me.”

David found that teenagers suited his lifestyle. “They are more independent, so you are not tied to the house, but you can share moments like cooking or cinema nights.” Foster Cares Ltd’s careful matching and advice made it work.

Helping Young People Thrive

David has supported young people from tough backgrounds, some with medical needs, learning difficulties, or emotional needs. With stable consistent care, they have made huge progress:

• One, who struggled with literacy and left mainstream school, is now in sixth form studying maths and science.
• Another, who had cared for siblings, passed exams, started university in journalism, and now lives independently.
• A third went from no qualifications to an apprenticeship in property maintenance and is enjoying it.

David’s newest placement, who joined this year after a breakdown, has autism and ADHD. In just months, their school results and behaviour have improved, with a smooth transition to secondary school ahead.

“These achievements show what is possible with the right support,” David says. “From attending school meetings to encouraging new skills, it all adds up.”

A Home Built on Fairness and Stability

David’s key? “Treat them how you would want to be treated, no favourites.” From bowling to theatre trips, he creates a stable, calm family to be part of. “One young person had never been on holiday before. Now they have memories for life.”

During COVID, David left banking for good. “Fostering is what I was meant to do. On Father’s Day, I got a homemade card and breakfast. Those moments make it worthwhile.”

With options like Staying Put, some placements may stay long-term, building a lasting family.

Could You Foster?

David’s journey shows that fostering fits real lives. Working parents, professionals, or retirees can all foster successfully. “You do not need to be perfect,” he says. “Just give them stability, and Foster Cares Ltd supports you every step.”

If his story has inspired you, contact Foster Cares Ltd today for a no-obligation chat or request our free information pack. You could be the person who changes a young person’s future.

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