"My one regret is that I didn't do fostering years ago!"- Mary, aged 58
Mary was 56 years old and single when she decided to become a foster carer for Fostering Solutions. Mary initially began fostering 2 years ago as a respite carer but found the task so rewarding and fulfilling she left her job as a care worker for the elderly, to foster 3 sisters full time, now aged 17, 14 and 13, the youngest having mild learning difficulties.
We asked Mary how she copes as a single carer, "my daughter and son in law foster as well so I get lots of support, and I get support from the children's social worker, in addition, I get excellent support from Fostering Solutions , they are always there to talk to 24 hours a day, as well as having my own supervising social worker who provides support, advice and guidance".
Mary's zest for life, energy, enthusiasm and her commitment to fostering has enabled the children to thrive whilst in her care. The eldest now attends college and has been nominated as student representative for the 2nd year running. The younger children now have excellent school attendance and go to Air Cadets and Karate.
"I learn something new everyday about the girls and whilst fostering is a busy and demanding job, what you put in, you get back a 100 times over when you see their smile, progress and achievements."
Mary only has one regret, "I'm sorry I didn’t do fostering years ago. It is the most amazing thing that I have done in my life."
Mary’s story is not unique: Fostering Solutions have a variety of foster carers from different walks of life to meet the different and diverse needs of children.
