Why foster?

Brad Kella opens up about his time in foster care and how his foster parents were the only people in the world that inspired him and made him feel like he could go out and achieve anything he wanted.

As a foster carer you will be able to see the impact that your care has on a child or young person. Knowing that you are instrumental in helping them to thrive is hugely rewarding.

• Children who need to be fostered are some of the most vulnerable people in our society.
• To be instrumental in their protection and development is an opportunity and a privilege.
• Knowing that you were able to influence their future and help them to thrive is hugely rewarding.
• As a foster carer you will be able to see the impact that your care and nurture is having on a child.
• To watch them overcome anxieties and seeing their circumstances improve because of you will be something you can be extremely proud of.

Action for Children Fostering recognises that being a foster carer is a huge commitment. It’s a vocation and a role beyond the 9-5. It’s life changing and life enhancing. We value our foster carers and look after them so that they can look after the children who need them.

Foster carers work alongside many other professionals involved in supporting a child in need. Foster carers may need to help their foster child with their education, contact with their families and their emotional wellbeing. This nurturing environment, giving a child love, care, time and attention can help to improve that child or young person’s life chances.

Action for Children foster carers can rely on the support of a professional team 24/7 year-round. We believe that the support, training and guidance we give to our foster families is second to none and is available to all family members. We’ll give one-to-one help and advice whenever needed, day or night.

Lynda thought long and hard before becoming a foster carer – she’s very happy that she did:

Darren is a single Dad and explains why he decided to foster after his daughters left home:

Katie and Seamus recently marked their first year as approved foster carers. The couple met with us to reflect on what they've learned during the assessment and after.