When our 5 children were young we always discussed how we would like to foster once the youngest became more independent. Four years ago it felt right. Matt had always worked with children in children’s homes and then as a primary school teacher. I had worked in schools for a number of years in pastoral care. I am also adopted.
Fostering is a professional career. The assessment process is rigorous and it was obligatory to attend Skills To Foster which helps potential foster carers to understand the complexities of looking after traumatised children. There is also lots of training offered by Plymouth City Council to support foster carers in their role and as members of National Association of Therapeutic Parenting even through lockdown, we have still been able to access support and training.
Fostering is hard work but incredibly rewarding. To see children experience things for the first time ….. first time on the beach, first time trying foods, first time going swimming; learning to swim, first time on a bike; learning to ride a bike …… the list is endless! Then there are the subsequent slow changes in the children as they begin to thrive and relax….the first time you witness the child belly laugh naturally is priceless.
Charlotte. Foster Mum of 2 siblings (permanent)
