Claire and Danny have been fostering for nearly four years, but their dream of becoming foster carers has been many more years in the making.
As parents to a young family, they had always hoped to open their home to children in care, but they waited until their own children had grown up and moved out to free up the space and time they needed to foster. Since then, their home has become a place of love, laughter, and life-changing memories.
Recently, Claire and Danny took their three foster children on a much-anticipated holiday to Haven in Norfolk during the school break. For many foster parents, trips like this are more than just a holiday; it’s a chance to create unforgettable memories with the children they are caring for.
What made the holiday extra special for Claire and Danny was the fact it was shared with five other fostering families.
“We brought our daughter and her friend to come along with our foster children and we all travelled together in a minibus. It made the journey extra exciting for us all, all being together with our suitcases.” Claire said.
For children in care, holidays can often be their first experience of getting away, and Claire explained just how magical it was for them.
“They were in awe and so happy from the moment they stepped into the minibus to settling into our blue-and-white caravan. The holiday centre had so many activities, which gave the children the chance to try new things, gain independence, and most importantly, just enjoy being kids.” Claire said.
One of the older children in their care faced the fear of heights doing the “Big Jump”, leaping off a high platform and landing on a huge airbag.
“She was feeling a bit scared at first, but she mustered up the courage after a couple of attempts and made the leap. We were so proud of how brave she was, and she had the whole group cheering her on.
“She was grinning afterwards and telling us she’d have regretted it if she hadn’t given it a try. She even inspired some of the littler children with her courage with one of them telling us she wanted to do the Big Jump too when she’s big enough.” Claire said.
The younger children had their own share of ‘firsts’, from their very first swim to clambering on climbing frames, scooting around the site and even meeting characters like Rory the Tiger.
Beyond the fun, Claire highlighted the importance of sharing the experience with other fostering families.
“It was lovely to take the holiday with other foster parents, you learn a lot from one another as each one brings their own understanding of what children in care need; sometimes a little space, sometimes extra support.
“It definitely feels like a community, there’s no pressure to do everything together, yet there’s always a feeling of connection.” Claire said.
With evenings filled with laughter, the carers themselves have formed strong bonds, creating a vital support network and friendships that extend beyond the holiday.
The children, when asked about the trip, couldn’t stop smiling as they shared stories about hot doughnuts, candyfloss, chips by the sea, and even spotting a seal. One child said she made new friends and would remember the trip forever. Another simply declared, “This was the BEST holiday,” while holding tight to memories of photos with characters and fun in the soft play area.
“It was wonderful. It’s all about creating and making memories for the children, and that’s exactly what we did.” Claire said.
Foster carers with Thurrock Council benefit from a great support network, in-depth training and financial help.
If you’re interested in finding out more about becoming a foster carer, read more about what is involved on the Thurrock Council Fostering webpage or call 0800 652 1256
