Fostering a teenager
Read what some of our amazing foster carers
have to say about Fostering a Teenager
“ I’m not going to say fostering a Teenager is easy because it can be difficult. You have to have a lot of understanding. I set down my boundaries very slowly. No Teenager likes to be told what to do. I have spent nights at the police station, and endless trips to the school but that child will always know I am in their corner. The benefits you will receive can be amazing, being called Nan or when they leave home seeing them build a life of their own, knowing without your help it would not have happened. I love what I do. It’s brought me laughter and tears. It must be the most rewarding thing anyone can do. Funny, I am writing this and one of my kids, foster, long gone and made a life of his own has just popped in for a coffee. ”
KG
Plymouth Foster Carer
“ When they start to trust you they can really open up and be so honest about their experiences and their fears, hopes and dreams. I love giving them a safe space to work out who they are and then see them grow more confident and sure of themselves. Yes there is some occasional door slamming and messy rooms and without doubt questionable music and fashion taste (though they would say the same about me) but on the whole seeing a young person start to love themselves, being proud of who they are and believing in themselves is a real privilege and I love it. ”
NE
Plymouth Foster Carer of 16 year old teenager
“ Looking after teenagers in Care is a challenging but very rewarding experience. Having looked after teenagers, both boys and girls, I learned 2 things very quickly. Firstly, it was imperative to get to know the child and their ways and secondly, to attend as much training as possible to enable you to understand their trauma. Our kids could have had the same childhood experiences but they manifest this in different ways. With regular training and using your support network, caring for these kids becomes a lot easier to manage. The key is not to take offence at their words. It may be the only way they know how to communicate when they’re feeling lost or upset. It’s not a personal attack – it’s a child in distress. Your reaction to these situations is decidedly important. Watching kids thrive, become more confident and achieve, is so very satisfying. One of the most worthwhile experiences I have had. ”
PD
Plymouth Foster Carer
PLYMOUTH CHILDREN AND TEENAGERS IN CARE FLOURISH WITH PLYMOUTH FOSTER CARERS