Fran
Fran is single carer and has been fostering with Five Rivers Fostering since 2016.
What inspired you to become a foster carer?
I developed ovarian cancer twelve years ago and was off work going through treatment, I previously worked for a large financial institution and had planned on going back to work but as that day drew closer, I began to reflect on whether I wanted to go back to that big bad world again or what could I give back. Afterall I was very lucky to be there after what I had gone through.
I always liked the idea of fostering and as I’m a single parent myself I knew I would be able for it. So, I lifted up the phone and called Five Rivers and the rest is history!
What fears or concerns did you have before embarking on becoming a foster carer?
I had the big fear falling in love and a child going back to their parents like anyone. But the support I get is second to. It’s so important to feel that. I speak to my link worker once a week which is just fantastic.
How long did you think about fostering before taking the first step?
About 6 months.
Can you remember a time that made you realise the impact you were having as a foster carer?
Around the time their mother died and seeing the boys going through the funeral and dealing with all of that. I felt very good and capable knowing I was a huge support for them in that and the aftermath. I was just open and honest with them all the way through, and they coped so well.
Are there challenges you have faced as foster carer that you have learnt from?
I have reared them differently than my own birth children. The attachment piece in the beginning was very challenging. I didn’t understand a lot due to their trauma. But I found the DDP trauma informed training hugely beneficial in this and it made all the difference to me– it all made total sense.
What has fostering brought to your family?
Well 2 more members of the family! I now have 6 children! We are a very close family, and they call my birth children their brothers and sisters and they are now nephews too. In school they talk about my family. It’s brought a lot of learning to us all and my children realise how lucky they are. I am pretty sure two of my birth children will foster in the future themselves. Despite the challenges for us it has been a very good experience.
What supports have helped you on your fostering journey? Have you felt supported by Five Rivers Fostering?
They are hugely supportive; I speak to my foster carer at least once a week and the training has been invaluable.
Is there anything you would like to say to someone that is single that may be thinking about fostering?
For anyone single looking to foster I would advise them to go with Five Rivers Fostering due to the support you will get. I couldn’t have done it without the support I have gotten.
My other advice is to get linked in with another foster carer in your area. I had this from early on and we have met every month over the last 7 years. It is so great to be able to speak to someone else about what you are going through. People on the outside have their views so it’s great to speak to someone else that also goes through this.
Finally, I would say go for it! It is well worth it and even though the assessment process is long I can see the point of it. By the time you go through the assessment; any doubts will be addressed.
