Debbie’s Fostering Journey: The Power of Finding the Right Agency

Fostering is hard work, as we have been established for over 25 years so we know the right support can make all the difference. In a recent interview, Debbie shared her fostering journey in the North East, from her early struggles to the community she found after transferring agencies. If you are in the North East or North West and thinking about fostering, Debbie’s story shows how a switch can lead to a more fulfilling experience, with practical help and a real sense of belonging.

Starting Out and Seeking Change

Debbie began her fostering journey 11 years ago, picking a nationwide agency. After two years, she felt a lack of steady support was leaving her frustrated. “I was only there for about two years, and in that time, I just felt like I wasn’t supported. They were changing people around all the time, and certain things they offered didn’t happen,” she recalls. Managing a child with extra needs without enough guidance made her decide to look at different agencies.

She learned about Foster Cares Ltd through social workers who had made the move. “As soon as I started looking into Foster Cares, it was completely different. Straight away, I felt like I was in a fold of people who were very much like me, wanting to advocate for children and on the same level.” Transferring went smoothly, using her existing records to speed up approval. “They usually say about six months, but mine went through a lot quicker.”

The Assessment and Panel: A Friendlier Approach

The assessment felt thorough but reassuring for Debbie. “I had an amazing assessing social worker who helped me through it. The questions are deep, but you understand why they want to know you inside and out for the children’s sake.” The panel was also a pleasant surprise. “The panel was amazing, they were lovely, chatty, and laid back. It was so much friendlier than my first experience.”

Nine years on, Debbie sees how fostering fits into daily life in the North East. “The support from your social worker is amazing. Everybody knows you and your children, and it gives you that feeling of more support.”

Staying Put: The Family Feel That Matters

The close-knit vibe keeps her going. “We are more like a family, I can’t explain it any better than that. We get in touch with each other, the foster carers; we have little meetings, and we can grab each other’s phone numbers. There’s always somebody who’s been through what you’re dealing with.” Debbie has built strong friendships and values the team’s approach. “I’ve made some amazing friends, and the staff, we have a good laugh. They know we’re doing a hard job and protect us.”

She has cared for children with different needs and always felt backed. “The second child I had had even more needs than the first one. So I was really supported through that.”

Debbie’s Words for Fellow Carers

Looking back, Debbie advises considering what truly fits. “You’ve got to weigh up everything in your own life, but if you want something that’s more family friendly, then I would suggest having a go with us”

At Foster Cares Ltd, we focus on making your fostering journey rewarding and straightforward. If Debbie’s story hits home, reach out today. Request an information pack or contact our team to chat about your options.