Ingrid says:
We considered becoming foster carers for a while, but work, and other life commitments always got in the way. That was until the first COVID-19 lockdown hit and we, like many, had more time to think about what really matters!
As a safeguarding instructor and someone who works in childcare, I was aware that there had been a decrease in carers too. These factors gave us the motivation we needed to stop simply talking about becoming carers and do something about it.
After a family discussion, we agreed that the time was right to explore this more and apply. The process was relatively smooth, and we had regular online meetings to complete the relevant documents. We also attended online ‘skills to foster’ training alongside other people who had applied to become carers. This was a good opportunity to share concerns with others and talk to existing foster carers.
We've been carers since January 2021 and within a few weeks of our approval we had our first placement. At first it was a little daunting having a ‘stranger’ in the house and getting to know him. Yet, he settled extremely well and is now very much part of the family. When our foster child arrived, he was a shy, withdrawn and lacking in self-confidence. Within weeks he developed into a confident outgoing boy who stood much taller. He loves joining in with family activities and is a pleasure to have in our home.
Don’t get me wrong, it’s not always ‘plain sailing', but its not with your own children either. Initially we were a bit nervous about discipline, especially as you do not always know fully what a child may have been through. We managed this by having a weekly family meeting and made the rules and routines clear from day one.
The support we have received from the family placement team has been great. They are always there if you need support, either face to face, online or over the phone.
Our advice to anyone who is thinking about becoming a foster carer: Do it! It’s the most rewarding job and every child deserves the best possible start in life.
