Emma, a dedicated long-term foster carer with Caritas Care, shares her fulfilling experience of fostering two boys as a foster carer with her husband Chris. Reflecting on her journey, Emma talked to us about the joys and challenges of fostering and how her faith guides her through this rewarding path.

Choosing Caritas Care for Fostering

“I think Caritas Care is fantastic. I chose to become a foster carer with Caritas Care because they genuinely care and want the best for you. They go above the care you would expect because they want you to have the best. I can ring anytime and ask them anything. The team at Caritas Care ran on full throttle because of the pandemic; I felt for them, but I know they do this because they want the best for the kids.”

“In my first video with Caritas Care, I had my first placement with three children who were short-term. After a short break, I fostered three little boys for seven months. Now, I have two boys placed with me on a long-term placement. Siblings were easier to settle due to their unique bond, which made them stronger together. Despite stereotypes, the children I look after are kind, creative, funny, and bright, each with their own dreams and aspirations.”

“There is a stereotype of foster children having ‘bad’ behaviour, but this isn’t who they are as individuals. Although there may be challenging behaviours, these children are special, with a purpose, hope, and future. Foster carers can help overcome these barriers because we often have lived through our own life challenges. Understanding and reflecting on these experiences, we can create good for them.”

“I am a practicing Christian; my faith in God is the foundation of who I am. Every decision I make in my life stems from my belief in an all-loving, all-knowing, God who gave His life for me. Knowing that everything is in His plan gives me peace in my daily living and helps me through challenging days. Becoming a foster carer was a step of faith in what I believe He called me to do.”

“Caritas support has been outstanding. The matching process of children and carers at Caritas Care is excellent. They never forced referrals or made me feel guilty if I said no. My social worker understands me, and our communication is strong and honest.”

“For me, fostering is fulfilling God’s purpose for my life. I’ve experienced significant changes in my life since becoming a foster carer. I began the process as a single working professional occupational therapist and now I no longer work in the NHS, I am married to a wonderful man and together we have 2 beautiful foster children and a lovely daughter/step daughter. They both enhance the boys life even more. I am also able to work in a pre-school 2 days a week. I wondered if any of this could happen when I became a foster carer but anything is possible with God and an amazing community of people behind you.”

“Becoming a foster carer has enhanced my life. It can be challenging but extremely rewarding. The most important decision is who you foster with, and for me, that was Caritas Care.”

Emma’s story highlights the importance of love, support, and faith in fostering. Through her journey with Caritas Care, she has found fulfilment and purpose, making a lasting impact on the lives of the children she cares for.

Click here to enquire about fostering with Caritas Care or complete the form opposite and a member of our team will contact you.