Jane and Steve, Foster carers
Jane and Steve had given a lot of thought about fostering before deciding it was the right time to do something about it.
They looked at fostering on the internet and found out that almost anyone interested in caring for children could foster so they decided to take the plunge and contact Simply Fostering.
When they became approved foster carers, it took time to adjust to their new life; Jane had left work to become a full-time foster carer, staying home to care for a foster child.
Jane said; 'I always put myself in the shoes of the child or young person, I try to think about how they must feel and try my best to put them at ease and make them feel welcome'.
Jane and Steve have been fostering since 2008, Jane says she enjoys being a foster carer and now sees it as her full time job.
She said; 'It is a challenging but really rewarding job, caring for children who have gone through so many difficulties in their life.'
Jane and Steve are dedicated to helping children reach their full potential and both said; 'we totally recommend a career in fostering'. Contact Simply Fostering for help and good advice.
Why do people foster?
People become foster carers because they are committed to giving children a safe and secure home. Stella, a foster carer told us "fostering has given me the opportunity to give youngsters a chance at family life. My kids had left home, I had the space and because I had thought about fostering for a while I took the plunge. I look after teenagers now who I help to move on to independance. It's hard sometimes but I love it!"
Fostering as a career
Fostering can be a career. Some Fostering Agencies are prepared to pay retainers between placements to experienced foster carers and there is a growing need for foster carers who are prepared to foster children and young people on a long term fostering basis, as well as permanently.
Who can be a foster carer?
Foster carers come from all walks of life, different backgrounds, experiences, lifestyles, ages and occupations. To be a foster carer you will need to be flexible, understanding and want to learn new skills. A good sense of humour helps.