When Olivia’s family began their fostering journey, she was excited about the difference they could make to the lives of children who needed a safe and caring home. One year on, she says being part of a fostering family has been a rewarding experience that has helped her grow in understanding, compassion and confidence.
“I was actually really happy because this meant I could help children,” Olivia says when reflecting on how she felt when her parents first told her they were considering fostering.
Since welcoming foster children into their home, Olivia says she has felt proud to play a role in supporting them.
“I felt good about it and really proud because I love to help others.”
building friendships and sharing experiences
For Olivia, one of the best parts of being involved in a fostering family has been meeting other children and young people who understand what fostering is like.
“I really enjoy being part of a fostering family. I especially like going to fostering events because I get to meet other people who understand what it is like and share our experiences. It’s also a great way to make new friends and realise there are other families like ours.”
These opportunities help children and young people connected to fostering feel supported and reassured that they are part of a wider fostering community. Based on Olivia’s experience, fostering has helped create new friendships while giving her the chance to share experiences with others in similar situations.
learning to see things differently
Being part of a fostering household has also taught Olivia valuable lessons about empathy and understanding.
“I have learnt that children in care may behave in different ways around other people because of what they have experienced. It doesn’t mean they are trying to be bad; it just means that there is something they need to tell us.”
She says fostering has even changed the way she thinks about other children she meets in everyday life.
“It has also made me think about children in my school who may not behave well. Perhaps they have experienced difficult circumstances too.”
making a difference
For Olivia, the greatest reward of fostering is knowing that children can feel safe, cared for and loved.
“I would say the rewards of being a fostering family are being able to help children feel safe, cared for and loved.”
She also enjoys seeing foster children experience everyday family life, learn new things and create positive memories.
“It is fun having another person in the family and seeing them learn new things and have new experiences too.”
Olivia has seen first-hand how fostering can have a lasting impact.
“I think fostering can make a big difference to a child’s life because it gives them a safe place to live where they can feel part of a family. That may help them to feel happier and like they can trust people.”
She recalls how special it was to share family experiences with a child in their care.
“We were able to take a foster child on holiday with us, and it was lovely to see how much they enjoyed it. Even small things like spending time chatting with them can make a difference.”
a message to families considering fostering
Some families worry about the impact fostering may have on their own children, but Olivia believes it has had a positive effect on her.
“Some families might worry that it might impact their own children, but for me I feel like it has helped me.”
She encourages families to keep an open mind about fostering and the positive experiences it can bring.
When asked to sum up her fostering experience so far, Olivia’s answer is simple:
“It has been great, wonderful, encouraging and awesome.”
And would she recommend fostering to other families?
“Yes, I would 100% recommend fostering to other families as it can help foster children and it could help their own families too as you learn to be more understanding and patient.”
For Olivia, fostering has not only helped children feel safe and supported but has also helped her develop a deeper understanding of others and the difference a caring family can make.
interested in fostering?
If you’re curious about fostering but unsure how it might impact your family, we’re here to help. Our team can talk you through the process, explain how your children will be supported, and answer any questions you have.
For more information about life as fostering family, click here.
Contact Foster Wales Swansea on 0300 555 0111 for a friendly, no-pressure chat or get in touch here.
