Lyn and Jim talk about how rewarding it is to witness the emotional growth in the children they provide care for. They were nominated as finalists in the 2026 National Children and Young People Awards.

We had always talked about fostering when we retired. I have always worked with children and adults since leaving school in various capacities, and Jim knew some foster children growing up in Canada. He always knew that if he ever had the opportunity to help and foster children he would take it.

One of the biggest highlights for us is seeing how L has changed from a quiet, withdrawn and almost non-verbal 12 year old, and how he has blossomed into a confident, sociable, sensitive young man who doesn’t stop talking now! We recently did a three hour drive to Wales and he was playing I-Spy with us and singing and talking the whole way.

There are so many magical moments. For Jim, his favourite moment was where L was proud to show us how well he could read and write, and how much he loves going to school. For me, it was when L learnt how to ride a two wheeler bike last year, and for L to have the confidence to try – and after a couple of attempts watching him take off into the distance with a big “Woohoo” was amazing. 

Becoming foster carers has changed us, by making us feel fulfilled, and like we are making a difference. It is the opportunity for us to see what a difference we can make in a child’s life. The motivation is giving the children the chance to grow and to see them develop emotionally and physically. Even an episode of dysregulation and challenging behaviour is the opportunity to show understanding, and to show that it is ok to be angry, and then how to deal with emotions in a positive way. And when that child later shows that they have listened and leant from that experience, that is rewarding.

To us, being foster carers has been fulfilling, and a personal goal achieved, where we are so proud of L and his development.