What inspired you to become foster carers?

“Fostering had always been something we had thought about, but it wasn’t until our youngest daughter, Georgina, was about to head off to university that we seriously considered it. At that point, we were experiencing the empty nest syndrome in our large, four-bedroom home, which suddenly felt empty. Having always loved children, we saw it as the perfect opportunity to offer a warm, caring, and family-friendly environment to children and young people in need.”

What is your favourite thing about fostering?

“What we love most about fostering is witnessing the children and young people settle into our home after what might have been one of the most traumatic experiences of their lives. Providing them with a friendly face, a warm, stable, and loving family environment helps them feel safe, build trust, and make significant progress. Listening, patience, and a sense of humour are essential to building positive relationships, and these are qualities we value. There’s nothing more heartwarming than supporting a child as they grow into healthy, happy, and independent young people. The most rewarding part—and our proudest achievement—is when former foster children stay in touch as adults. To hear them say that we were part of their journey and helped them become the incredible young people they are today is the best feeling imaginable.”

What role has TACT played in supporting you in your fostering journey?

“TACT has always been an outstanding charity to work with. The support we’ve received from the team, especially in times of need, has been invaluable. This support has extended not only to our work with foster children but also to our own family. On a few occasions, we had to put our fostering role on hold due to health or family matters, but TACT remained in touch, offering understanding and care during those times. The TACT team and its growing community of foster carers truly feel like a family. We have been fortunate to work with two SSWs in our 14-plus years of fostering, and both have been exceptional. A special mention must go to our current SSW, Mary Reason, who consistently goes above and beyond in supporting us. She’s always available and takes a genuine interest in not only our foster children but our immediate family as well. Her advice and guidance have been invaluable, and she truly deserves recognition for helping us through some challenging times.”

What advice would you give to others who are considering becoming foster carers?

“For anyone considering fostering, we encourage you to take the leap. The assessment process can be intensive and time-consuming, but it’s essential to ensure that fostering is the right fit for you. Our own assessment took eight months, and we learned so much about ourselves during that time. Fostering can be challenging, but the reward of seeing children thrive and find happiness far outweighs the difficulties. The training and support provided are exceptional, and they help you develop the skills necessary to be a successful foster carer. Never doubt yourself—doing so could prevent you from embarking on such a worthwhile and rewarding journey.

We have never regretted fostering with TACT and would wholeheartedly recommend them to any potential carers. Our foster children have enriched our lives, and we are immensely grateful to them. Life as a foster carer is never boring, and we wish you the best of luck on your own fostering journey.”

Well done Barbara and Rob on your incredible achievement!