Say hello to Barbara and Frank – Experienced foster carers who share their journey and insights into fostering.

Tell us a little about yourselves

We are Barbara and Frank, and we have been fostering with Foster Cares Ltd for the past 15 years. During that time, we have cared for around 15 children and young people. At the moment, we have two children living with us, one aged 10 who has been with for three years  and one 18 who has been with us for ten years.

Our interest in fostering first began when Barbara saw a woman being interviewed on breakfast television, talking about her experience as a foster carer. It really resonated with us. Barbara felt that instead of working in an office, she wanted to do something meaningful and make a difference in a child’s life.

Between us, we have four children of our own who are now all adults. We felt it was the right time in our lives and that we had the experience and stability to offer children a safe and loving home.

We initially started out as short-break carers while Barbara worked part-time. Later, Barbara decided to leave her job and foster full-time, which led us to become short-term carers. Frank continues to work part-time while supporting Barbara in her fostering role.

We also have a 13-year-old granddaughter, who has a disability and is a big part of our lives. She regularly stays with us, and we enjoy spending time together as a family. We love going on days out with the children as a family – we recently visited Alton Towers and had a fantastic time. Our granddaughter and our 10-year-old foster child have similar interests and really enjoy spending time together.

What is fostering like?

Fostering can be hard work and sometimes challenging, but it is also incredibly rewarding and humbling. When children first arrive, it can take time for them to settle and feel safe. Opening your home up and helping guide them onto the right path can be difficult at first, but seeing the progress they make over time is truly wonderful.

It’s not always plain sailing

Every child is different and comes with their own experiences and needs. As foster carers, we work hard to support each child in the best way we can.

Some people begin the fostering process thinking it will be easier than it is. This is why the Skills to Foster training during the assessment stage is so important. The agency was very open and honest with us about the realities of fostering. Some people in our course decided it wasn’t for them once they understood what was involved. We felt confident we could do it – and here we are, 15 years later.

How have you found the support from Foster Cares Ltd?

The support we receive has been unbelievable. Our supervising social worker and all the staff at the agency are amazing. We know we can pick up the phone at any time and someone will be there to support us.

We also complete a lot of training and really enjoy meeting other foster carers during training sessions and social events such as Summer in the Park, Christmas events, and Walk and Talk support groups. It’s great to share experiences and learn from one another. It really does feel like one big family. When our children have been for short breaks with other carers, we know they are with people who are part of our team.

What would you say to someone thinking about fostering?

We would say: give it a try. Fostering can be a tough job, but with the right training and support, it is incredibly worthwhile.

Seeing children grow and make progress in your care is very rewarding and often humbling. Something as simple as a child reaching for your hand when crossing the road makes it all worth it.

Building relationships with children and young people can take time, and you have to be patient and committed, even when things feel difficult. You have to be willing to stand up for their needs and support them every step of the way.

Fostering really is wonderful.

If you think fostering could be right for you, we would love to hear from you.
Call 0800 488 0081