How does your role support fostering? 

My role (Fostering Support Worker) provides emotional and practical support, advice and guidance to foster carers, looked after children and young people. It is a crucial role in providing care and help to children and young people within foster homes, helping them navigate through daily life and supporting their personal development. The role involves working closely with not only the children but also foster families, schools, and social workers to ensure a safe and nurturing environment for those under our care.

What is your favourite part about being involved in fostering?

The most rewarding aspect of working in fostering is the opportunity to positively change a child’s life by providing a stable and nurturing environment. This includes seeing a child heal from past trauma, develop a sense of security, and achieve their full potential. Another significant benefit is the personal growth and success that comes from building a strong relationship with a child and becoming part of their journey. 

Can you share a positive fostering moment that has stood out to you?

There have been many fostering moments that have stood out for me, although I do enjoy attending our range of fostering groups. When listening to foster carers sharing their experiences and stories of their personal journeys in fostering and passing on advice and support to other carers. It really brings home how special, caring and supportive our foster carers community is and the benefits of getting together.  

What would your advice be to someone thinking about fostering?

Fostering is a significant commitment requiring patience, understanding, and a strong support system. Be prepared for the emotional challenges, but also the immense rewards of providing a safe and loving environment for a child in need. 

Why should someone foster?

Fostering offers a unique opportunity to make a significant impact on a child’s life while also enriching your own through personal growth and community involvement. By becoming a foster parent, you can provide a safe and loving environment for children who have experienced trauma, neglect, or instability. Your support can help them heal and thrive.

Why should someone foster with Peterborough City Council above anyone else?

Fostering with Peterborough City Council means all money is spent on frontline services and the child is more likely to be able to stay close to their school, friends and family networks. Peterborough has a team dedicated to support and advice foster carers every step of the way.