When Abbie Morgan was 13 years old, her parents made the decision to become foster carers. At first, she wasn’t sure what to expect. The thought of welcoming children she didn’t know into her home felt daunting, and she wondered how much family life would change.
Today, after growing up in a fostering family, Abbie is preparing for an exciting new chapter. She and her boyfriend are currently being assessed to become foster carers themselves.
nervous at first, but soon feeling like a bigger family
Reflecting on her parents’ decision to foster, Abbie remembers feeling nervous about what the future might look like.
“I was young and it was quite daunting to think about how things may change, what our days, home and celebrations would look like going forward.”
However, she quickly discovered that fostering didn’t fundamentally change who her family was.
“Looking back, the biggest change was simply that our family grew. We welcomed new children into our home and adapted together as a family, and it soon became a normal part of our lives.”
learning empathy and understanding
Growing up alongside children from different backgrounds and experiences helped shape the person Abbie is today. She credits fostering with helping her develop empathy, compassion and a deeper understanding of the challenges some children and young people face.
“Being part of a fostering family helped me develop a strong sense of empathy and compassion, which encouraged me to pursue a career in social care and has ultimately shaped the person I am today.”
Abbie says fostering taught her that every child is different and that even small acts of kindness and support can have a lasting impact.
the hardest part and the most rewarding part
Like many fostering families, saying goodbye was often the most difficult aspect for Abbie and her family. Whether children moved on to adoption, another foster placement or returned to family members, the transitions were emotional.
“As a fostering family, you build bonds with the children and naturally become attached to them, so it can be difficult when the time comes for them to move on.”
Despite this, Abbie says the rewards of fostering far outweigh the challenges.
“It’s rewarding to see a child grow in confidence, begin to trust people and feel comfortable and happy in their environment.”
For her, knowing a child feels safe, loved and supported is one of the greatest rewards a fostering family can experience.
advice for families considering fostering
Abbie understands that some parents worry about how fostering may affect their own children. Her advice is simple: involve them from the beginning.
“I think it’s important to involve your own children in the process of fostering, as much as possible. Give them a voice too and consider how a placement may also look for them.”
She believes that when children are included and supported, fostering can be a positive experience for the whole family.
following in her parents’ footsteps
Having seen first-hand the difference foster carers can make to a child’s life, Abbie always knew fostering was something she might one day pursue herself.
“Growing up in a fostering family has had a huge influence on my decision to become a foster carer myself.”
“Seeing my parents foster and the difference they’ve been able to make in children’s lives has shown me just how important it is to provide a safe, loving and supportive home.”
Now, as she and her boyfriend begin their own fostering journey, Abbie hopes to offer children the same sense of safety, stability and belonging that she saw her parents provide throughout her childhood.
could you make a difference?
Abbie’s story shows that fostering doesn’t just change the lives of the children who need care and support. It can also have a lasting and positive impact on the families who foster, inspiring future generations to make a difference too.
To find out more about becoming a foster carer with Foster Wales Swansea, get in touch with our team today.
Contact Foster Wales Swansea on 0300 555 0111 for a friendly, no-pressure chat or get in touch here.
