Time flies; 15 years of fostering - Sharon

Sharon's Fostering Story

Sharon has been a foster carer since 2007. Here is her story:

Why I Became a Foster Carer

I became a foster carer because I love working with children. One day, I decided I wanted to help children by giving them a home where they can feel safe, loved, and cared for.

The Fostering Process

The process was clear, and the training was excellent. They prepared me well and explained potential challenges, assuring me I would have ample support. Once a child or young person joins your home, your life changes, much like having a new baby. I enjoyed the varied experiences of caring for, nurturing, and loving these children, always mindful of their backgrounds. I felt fully supported throughout my journey to becoming a foster carer. Currently, I receive regular training, supervision, and support from Nexus Fostering.

The Challenges and Rewards of Fostering

Fostering can be both challenging and rewarding. One challenge I faced was when a young person would have fun outings but then feel unsettled and act out at home. The most rewarding aspect is seeing a child or young person settle in, flourish, smile, grow, and achieve.

The ultimate reward is safely reuniting a child with their parents after working closely with both the child and the parents. I stay in regular contact with families who have been reunited.

My Placements and Positive Outcomes

Since 2020, I've been caring for a 12-year-old boy with down syndrome and multiple medical needs. When he came to me at 10, he wore nappies day and night and had limited speech. Now, he attends his special needs school and has shown remarkable progress in appearance, social skills, and speech. He is no longer in nappies and is always happy and helpful at school.

His health professionals, teachers, and social workers are very pleased with his continued progress. It hasn’t always been easy, but seeing his achievements gives me hope for his future. With patience, understanding, perseverance, and love, he can achieve much more. Caring for him is a pleasure and makes my role as a foster carer very rewarding.

What Makes a Great Foster Carer?

A great foster carer shows unconditional love, listens well, and is non-judgmental. They are child-focused and open-minded, embracing new cultures and ways of life. Giving a child or young person a chance and a home can make a big difference in their life. It's not easy, but seeing the positive growth and development of the child is incredibly rewarding.