Why become a carer?
The biggest reward is knowing that you are making a difference to the life of a child or young person. As a foster carer you will become a valued member of a caring team providing support for a child or young person in need.
You may help a child achieve their goals and improve their quality of life now and into the future. You will also learn more about how you relate and respond to children and young people, and will meet other people involved in caring and support roles.
If you already have children of your own, foster care can be a wonderful way to teach your children about the value of the safe and loving environment in which they are growing up. Many children who grow up with foster children in their home often maintain a role in community service, whether as a foster carer, other volunteer or employee.
"My carer has changed my life in such a positive way. If you knew me before I went into care, and know me now, then you'd know what a difference my carer has made to my life."
- ‘John', former foster child
"In 50 years it will not matter where I lived, what care I drove or what brand my clothes were. What will matter is that I was important in the life of a child."
- ‘Ellen', foster carer of a teenage boy