Essex County Council is encouraging parents with older children to foster. Over 500 children came into care last year. Could you provide a child with the safe and nurturing home they deserve?

Debbie Finch from Essex became a foster carer when her own children were growing up, she shares her story to inspire others.

Debbie said: “I’ve always loved children. As my own children grew up and became more independent, I felt I wasn’t ready for that part of my life to be over.

“We decided to start with fostering for a couple of weekends a month and during school holidays. It’s a good option to start with and see how you get on.

“We’ve been fostering for many years now, caring for children from a few weeks, to years, depending on what they need. I also look after my four grandchildren, so there are always children around and I just love it.

“Children in care are often traumatised and need a lot of emotional and mental support so that they can learn to trust and feel cared for. You can't change their past, or the trauma’s they’ve been through, but you can help them, or support them, in changing their future.

Debbie Finch, Lauren and familyDebbie Finch, Lauren and family (Image: Essex County Council Fostering) “The ongoing training provided by Essex County Council has been brilliant. There are so many support groups out there, I've felt part of a community caring for these children. You will never feel alone as a foster carer.

“We welcomed a child called Lauren into our family, she was with us for over 12 years and she’s still very much part of our family. Lauren graduated from university and is now a social worker helping children in care, we couldn’t be prouder. That right there is why we foster, to help and support children who may not have had the best start in life to achieve their best. We give them the chance to enjoy their childhood, to feel cared for and valued.”

Speaking about her experience in foster care, Lauren said: “I have grown up with Debbie and her family. She helped me accept and grieve the loss of my mum. She has completely shaped my life and helped me get to where I want to be. Fostering can change a child’s life so much if you have the passion and love to give.”

Debbie continues: “I go to bed knowing I’m making a difference to children who need support and it’s just so rewarding. My only regret is that I didn’t start fostering sooner.”

For more information about fostering, visit http://bit.ly/3zp0Gd2 or call 0800 801 530.