Every day foster carers across Thurrock provide safe, loving homes for children who cannot live with their birth families, whether for a few nights, several months or even years.
The decision to become a foster carer may come with plenty of questions about how it could affect your life, but often it will be one of the most fulfilling choices you could ever make.
We spoke to foster carers, Dave and Rachel, who started fostering in 2021, about how fostering had changed their family's life.
With two daughters of their own, fostering has helped their children grow and develop alongside their foster children.
It's an adjustment whenever a child joins us, as they might be used to different rules or routines. But our children have really learned to welcome them with compassion and it's taught them the importance of being flexible and kind.” Dave said.
Each of their foster children has lit up their life, helping to create a home that is filled with play and laughter.
“Our current foster child has really grown through playing with our children it’s beautiful to see." Rachel said.
Like all fostering journeys, each foster child comes with unique needs which is something they have learned to embrace.
"We’ve learned so much about how to adapt and support each of the children we've cared for and we’ve been well supported by Thurrock Council.” Dave said.
There have been plenty of proud moments for them to look back on, including how they helped one of their foster children to enjoy an unforgettable prom.
“One of our foster children were about to have their prom and we were able to help her to enjoy the day by getting her the dress she had been dreaming of. It was fantastic to celebrate with her and it's definitely moments like those that stay with you.” Rachel said.
As part of their decision to foster, they've become part of a close-knit community.
“You get to know people. The fostering team is brilliant and there’s a real sense of peer support from other carers, whether that's through WhatsApp groups or the regular meetups we have with each other a few times a month. There is always someone to talk to.” Rachel said.
For anyone thinking about fostering, Rachel and Dave couldn't be more encouraging in taking the first step in learning a little bit more.
"I'd honestly say just pick up the phone and start by having a conversation. The fostering team is fantastic, and there are regular information sessions you can go along to, to help you understand what’s involved.” Dave said.
“It helps because you don't feel any pressure, the team are simply there to help you understand more about fostering and give you the right support should you want to start. You can also speak with foster care ambassadors too, I think it's quite helpful because it's people who have done it and can give you an honest insight.” Rachel said.
To get in touch with Thurrock Council about fostering, call 0800 652 1256 or email fostering.adoption@thurrock.gov.uk
To learn more about fostering, visit: https://www.thurrock.gov.uk/fostering
