"I wanted to help and nurture other children"

Ever wondered what it's like to be a Foster Carer? Paula shares her journey and explains why choosing to become a foster carer was one of the best decisions she's made in a long time.

My name is Paula and I have fostered with ISP for 2 years. Since joining ISP, I've had the pleasure of caring for 3 children, aged between 8 and 13.  I've worked with teenagers for many years and saw the amazing work of other foster carers and the progress they'd achieved. My own children had grown up and I wanted to help and nurture other children.

I knew that children who had come into care may have experienced difficult starts in life, but I felt that I had the understanding and patience to support them. I underestimated the happiness I would receive from supporting the foster children. I quickly developed close and caring relationships with them and had the satisfaction of watching them develop in a positive way.

I forgot the fun of going to the park or swimming with children. The enjoyment of organising birthday parties and capturing lovely memories. I was able to relive all the lovely parts of bringing up my own children.
Watching a child's confidence grow is invaluable. Seeing the first time they achieve something they didn't think possible, is a very emotional experience and I have had hundreds of these moments in just 2 years. I feel very lucky.

Don't get me wrong, It is hard work (as any parent will tell you) and there are challenges along the way. Thankfully, ISP gave excellent training and I always have a supportive team around me to help me with the more challenging aspects of parenting children who have had difficult life experiences.

If you like to know more about how to become a foster carer with ISP reach out, it has been the best decision I have made in a long time.