Foster Care Fortnight 2025 – The Power of Relationships
A New Beginning
I came into care when I was seven years old, just three days before my eighth birthday. It was a huge shock and a very emotional time. I didn’t understand why I was there, and I was scared.
I had one foster placement, and I stayed with that family until I moved out. That was 21 years ago, and they are still my family to this day. After years of abuse, they made me feel safe and secure. I wasn’t scared any more. They always treated me the same as their own children. We came first, and they’ve never stopped being there for me.
Growing Up in Care
I stayed with my foster family until I was 19, when I moved into my own flat while pregnant with my child. They told me I could stay as long as I wanted, but I felt it was time to have my own space. Even then, they supported me every step of the way, including helping me through a domestic violence situation. They treat my child as their grandchild, and they’re just as involved in our lives now as they’ve always been.
The Power of Supportive Relationships
I had a few different social workers over the years, and each one was really supportive. They listened to me and made me feel like my voice mattered. I experienced a lot of trauma in my early life, and they helped me access counselling and the right services.
When I moved into my own flat, the leaving care team also stepped in to make sure everything was in place. Along with my foster family, they made sure I had everything I needed to start this next chapter.
A Birthday I’ll Never Forget
When I arrived at my foster carers’ home, it was just days before my birthday. I didn’t know what to expect, but they made it so special. Their children were lovely to me, and I’d been worried they might feel jealous, but instead, they celebrated with me. I’ve always been treated as part of the family. They accepted me for who I am, and that’s never changed.
Education, Encouragement and Boundaries
When I first arrived, I couldn’t read or write. My foster carers supported me through everything. They got me a tutor, helped me with after-school clubs, and read with me every night.
Today, I’ve passed my first year of university and I’m studying to become a nurse.
Like any teenager, I tested boundaries. I wanted to go out and have fun. But my carers always sat me down and told me the truth. Looking back, the best thing they did for me was say “no” when I needed to hear it. They kept me safe when I didn’t know how to do that for myself.
Lifelong Connections
I’m still in touch with other children who were fostered by my family. Some of them went back to their birth families, but we’ve all stayed connected. They feel like extended family to me. I even call some of them auntie and uncle.
Fostering creates those lifelong bonds, even when everyone’s journey is different.
Message to Young People in Care
You’re safe now. No one is trying to take your parents’ place or hurt you. The people around you want to give you love and support. Try not to take that for granted.
Message to Future Foster Carers
Go for it. It’s a big decision and you will have doubts, but it can change lives. It changed mine. My foster carers gave me a second chance, a future I never would have had otherwise. Don’t focus on the negatives; the positives are so much more powerful.
What Would I Change About the Care System?
Nothing. Foster care saved my life. I wouldn’t be who I am today without it.
