Member News: Team Fostering -Thomas' Story #changeafuture

‘The difference Team Fostering made’

An account from Thomas, who was looked after by Team Fostering carers in the North East, in celebration of The Fostering Network's Foster Care Fortnight 2019 theme: #changeafuture

When I was placed with Helen and Neil, my carers at Team Fostering, they welcomed me straight away as part of their family.

While I was with them, the agency became like my extended family. The other foster carers and social workers were like my aunts and uncles, and the other kids were like friends, a little bit like cousins. We would see each other at Team’s parties and activities.

While I was in their care, Helen and Neil got me my first ever passport. With them I was able to visit Italy and Paris. They even put up with my obsession with Lady Gaga!

With them, I discovered who I am and what I can achieve. They really helped me when I came out, and they really helped me to dream big.

Helen and Neil pushed me to work hard at college and it was so worth it.

A holiday in Hong Kong cemented my dream of studying in Shanghai. Without their support it wouldn’t have been possible, but I made it to China!

I ended up taking a year of studying in Shanghai after I left Helen and Neil’s care. It was amazing and even though I was no longer placed with them, I knew Helen and Neil were always at the end of the phone. If I needed help I only had to ask.

I’m now living in Wales, completing a Chinese Studies degree. I still ring Helen and Neil once a week.

They always said I was part of their family, even after I left their care as foster carers, and they will always be part of mine. I feel lucky to have them.

Source:
www.teamfostering.co.uk

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