Sami's story
Quote from birth child Sami, one of our children who want to foster.
"My Mum and Dad have fostered since I was 3. I can't remember life before fostering. I do know and remember the first 2 babies we had. A boy and a girl. I loved to help my Mum feed them, get out their clothes and toys and pop their dummies in when they cried.
We as a family were then lucky enough to get 3 girls move in. I loved having 2 big sisters and a little sis. We were lucky as they all chose to stay until they reached 16, so I had a wonderful childhood with wonderful memories with them – it was perfect.
One of the girls still lives with us now. She's my sister and I wouldn't imagine life without her. We have a million photos and each one brings back a memory, like going on holidays and when my mum would dress us all the same, so no one would feel less cared for than the others.
I have memories of Christmas Day with the front room filled almost to the roof with toys for all of us, having £5 Friday, we got £5 then went to the shops alone to buy, cake, ice cream, sweets, biscuits. Then shared it all 3 ways. We often felt sick, but at least we felt sick together.
Then lockdown brought me a foster brother and little sis. We've adopted the girl and I now have an even bigger family.
We also have 2 teens. They are all just siblings to me. We have a big family and my Mum and Dad loves us all. I wouldn't want it any other way.
I do get to sleep in my Mum's bed when my dad works away. We stay up late and eat sweets in her bed. So I do get this treat, extra to the others.
I love fostering so much. I've already decided to foster when I leave home.
I tell everyone who listens. I love fostering and I'm glad my Mum and Dad followed their dreams. I also think it's made me a better person."
Roly the Cockapoo
Roly is a Cockapoo and has 2 human big sisters. Since his family started fostering, he has gained another big sister who he adores and who adores him in return.
Roly and his family have been fostering for just over a year, during which Roly has welcomed 15 children into his home with cuddles, tail wags, and patience.
He has played with children who felt lonely, nuzzled those who were sad, and his tricks never fail to impress—especially when he gives a high-five. In exchange for a treat, of course.
Although the children’s identities cannot be revealed, you can tell from these pictures that Roly is a huge part of the support and love the children his family cares for receive.
Poem
One of our very talented young people wrote this incredible poem what it is like to be fostered.
We submitted the poem on behalf of the young person into a competition - competing against other poems, pieces of art and crafts created by young people in care and not only did the poem win, but it came first prize!
We couldn't be prouder of our budding poet and the wonderful relationship she has with her foster family.
Good Living Condition
A place to call home,
A place with a roof over your head.
A place where people understand you,
A place filled with love.
A place where your voice matters,
A place to learn.
A place to grow up,
A place to become you.
A place of understanding,
A place to feel accepted.
Written by a very talented 13 year old young lady from Hull, who has lived with her foster carer for the past 9 years.
