Children in the care system should be our highest priority, and every effort should be made to support them into adulthood and independence. It is one of the key responsibilities of the government to provide support for those who need it most. I spent eight years sitting on the Surrey Fostering Panel, where we assessed potential foster carers and placed children with them. It was one of the most rewarding jobs I have ever done.
Seeing amazing people step forward to help a young person and witnessing those young people find a home where they could receive support was profoundly insightful. It revealed the most positive aspects of our humanity. I would leave the panel sessions, which went on for hours due to the importance of the work, feeling in awe of foster carers and even more in awe of children who were going through the process and showing tremendous strength in the face of adversity.
I don't think enough is done, despite best efforts, to showcase how fostering could work for people. Even if you have your own family, fostering can fit into your lifestyle. It is important to clearly explain how fostering can work and that it is remunerated. For stay-at-home mums and dads, fostering can provide an income and add a very positive dimension to your family. Yes, it is challenging, but as I have said, it is also highly rewarding. For those who do not have their own children, fostering can be for you as well. You can take children in, and when they move on to permanent situations, you can take a break. For older people, you can use your experience to look after a foster child and supplement your pension.
Everyone can be a foster carer, and I personally am keen to foster at some point in my life. My sister, who lives alone and has a full-time job, fosters and really enjoys it. It has fitted into her lifestyle, and she has made long-term friends with some of the children who have stayed with her.
So, even if you have a tiny bit of interest in fostering, reach out to the team or me for a chat, and we can tell you more.
