Fostering is a vital part of our society, providing a safe and nurturing environment for children who are unable to live with their birth families. However, with the number of children in care on the rise and a recruitment crisis facing the fostering sector, there is a pressing need for more foster families to step up and make a difference. To shed light on this issue, we had the opportunity to speak to a former foster child, who has now dedicated her life to helping match children in care with loving families.

The recruitment crisis in the fostering system has been a growing concern for many years. With over 78,000 children currently in care in the UK, there is a constant need for new foster families to provide these children with a stable and supportive home. However, the number of foster families available has been steadily declining, making it increasingly difficult to find suitable placements for these vulnerable children.

One of the main reasons for this decline is a lack of understanding about the fostering process. Many people are unaware of the different types of fostering, such as short-term, long-term, and respite care, and the training and support available to foster parents. This is where former foster child, Sarah*, comes in. As a Match Co-ordinator for a fostering agency, Sarah works tirelessly to educate and guide potential foster parents through the process, as well as matching children with the right families.

“Growing up in foster care myself, I understand the challenges and fears that both foster families and children face,” Sarah shared. “But I also know firsthand the incredible impact that a loving and supportive foster family can have on a child’s life. That’s why I am so passionate about my job; I want to help create more positive outcomes for children in care.”

Sarah’s journey through the foster care system was not an easy one. She entered care at the age of five due to her parents’ substance abuse issues and was placed with several different foster families before being adopted at the age of 10. Despite the challenges she faced, Sarah’s experience in foster care inspired her to make a difference in the lives of other children.

As a Match Co-ordinator, Sarah is responsible for assessing the needs and preferences of both foster families and children to ensure a successful placement. This includes considering factors such as the child’s age, background, and any specific needs they may have. Sarah also supports foster families throughout the placement process, providing them with the necessary training, resources, and emotional support to ensure a smooth transition for both the child and the family.

“Matching a child with a foster family is a delicate process,” Sarah explained. “It’s not just about finding any available family, but rather finding the right family that can meet the unique needs of the child. It’s about creating a safe and nurturing environment where the child can thrive and heal from any previous traumas.”

Sarah’s dedication and hard work have not gone unnoticed, with many foster families and children she has worked with praising her for her compassion and commitment. “Sarah was a godsend for us,” said David and Lisa, a foster family who recently adopted a child they were matched with through Sarah’s help. “She took the time to understand our family dynamic and carefully matched us with a child that we have now welcomed into our home as our own.”

Despite the challenges of the recruitment crisis, Sarah remains positive and determined to make a difference. “I have seen firsthand the impact that a loving and supportive family can have on a child’s life,” she said. “And that is what motivates me to keep working towards finding the best possible placements for these children.”

With more and more children entering the care system each year, we need more people like Sarah to step up and become foster parents. As Sarah rightly puts it, “Fostering is not just about providing a home, it’s about changing a child’s life and giving them a chance to thrive.” So, if you have ever considered becoming a foster parent, now is the time to take that step and make a difference in a child’s life.

In conclusion, while the recruitment crisis in the fostering system is a cause for concern, there are still many success stories like Sarah’s that give us hope. Her experience as a former foster child has not only inspired her to help match vulnerable children with loving families but also to raise awareness and understanding about the fostering process. Let us all join hands with Sarah and continue to spread the message that every child deserves a safe and loving home