Grantham: Our first fostering placement: Pete and Gemma's fostering story

By The Editor

8th Aug 2021 | Local News

Pete and Gemma decided to undertake fostering after speaking with friends who had been doing it for years. Gemma has a daughter, but the couple are unable to have children together.

Speaking about their fostering experience, Pete and Gemma said: "We decided permanent fostering would be the option that best fit into our lives. This would enable us to give a child a forever home, giving stability and a family unit. In addition Gemma's daughter would not have to endure changes to the family setting on a regular basis. She has slight disabilities in certain areas, which means stability and having her on-board was a key factor from day one.

"We have been fostering since the end of April. We had our panel date, and seconds after the decision we received a call saying they had a placement for us. We had two weeks to prepare, and during this time we would meet the child and previous carer and have play dates and sleep overs to allow a bond to form.

"We couldn't have asked for a better fit. She just slotted into our family with such ease. She loves animals luckily as we have three dogs, which she loves to play with and share the sofa with. She loves being outdoors, so we've purchased almost every outdoor activity possible for our garden to help keep her focused and interested.

"She is a big singer – the words don't always match, but she is enjoying every second. She has had our local supermarket in hysterics as she sings down every aisle dancing with her mini trolley! She loves dancing and said she wanted to be a ballerina, so we managed to find a ballet school and she really enjoys going and dressing up.

"We expected to face challenges with any placement, and bless her she comes with these, but we have done extra training to help support her. The response from her is positive, so we must be doing it right. Our little one has many complex issues stemming from birth. Currently she's in a mainstream school, but it is realised that more is required to support her in this area.

"Our family are extremely supportive and have taken to her no problem, and likewise she has taken to them all really well. From day two she has chosen to call us "Mummy" and "Daddy". She knows her biological mum and has contact, but feels comfortable calling us parents, which is very touching. She also refers to Gemma's daughter as "sister" – they have a lovely bond.

"We could have had a much rougher time, but the placement was perfectly matched all round. Since being in our care we have had positive feedback from the school and the professionals she has had to visit regarding her disabilities. It is very stimulating to hear the positive impact that our care has had – we class these as our sparkle moments.

"Our social worker and the child's social worker have been fantastic. They are always available and very helpful, and made sure we had everything we needed. LCC have been wonderful and very supportive in every aspect. They are very accommodating and great when it comes to problems that need solving quickly.

"If you feel you have the time and love to offer to a little person who has not had the best start in life, and you can give them security, safety, love and care, then don't hesitate, and become a foster parent today."

In Lincolnshire more foster carers are needed to look after some of the county's most vulnerable young people.

Each application to foster is considered on an individual basis and you can be a foster carer regardless of your marital status, sexuality, employment status, ethnicity or religion. However, you do need to have a spare bedroom for a young person to use.

In terms of practicalities, there is a fostering allowance, as well as good support and training for those who provide a home for a young person in need.

If you feel that you could offer a home to a young person, apply to foster today at www.lincolnshire.gov.uk/fostering or call our friendly team on 01522 554114.

     

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