Meet Helena* - her fostering journey has been a life-changing adventure spanning almost three decades! As she reflects on her 30-year milestone, she reflects on the challenges and joys, and the amazing ways she’s changed the lives of so many children and young people.
"I can’t believe that in May 2025, I will have been a foster carer for 30 years - it has just gone so quickly. I have had many ups and downs whilst fostering, but I have been rewarded many times, knowing that I’ve helped and been a part of children's and young people’s lives."
Looking back, Helena has built some amazing relationships with her foster children…
"Watching my young foster daughter, who I cared for from four years old, graduate from Sheffield University alongside her grandad in 2021 was emotional. She had many struggles in her life. Sitting next to her grandad, who was clapping and shouting out 'well done,' I realised that all the struggles were worth it. Seeing her achievements was wonderful."
"Similarly, I had the most treasured opportunity to watch my other foster daughter graduate from Leeds University in November 2024. And then to have even more pride in her when she achieved a first honours degree! She recently told me she is going to complete her master's degree. I am bursting with pride and have a lump in my throat writing this. She was 13 years old when she first came into care - scared, wanting to be with her family, and missing most of her education. What she has achieved has made me feel like a millionaire."
"I reflect with a great deal of pride. I am still in contact with a young girl I looked after over 28 years ago, who now has a family of her own. I also meet up for a cuppa with another young person I cared for over 18 years ago. It has not been easy, but I have some wonderful memories that I hold dearly."
Fostering is not just a personal journey - Helena’s birth daughter has also grown from being a foster family.
"My birth daughter has been on my fostering journey with me, and she is the most kind and caring human being. Fostering has given her the empathy for children who haven’t had the best start in life. It’s been a rollercoaster of every emotion and feeling there is, and more."
"Throughout our journey there’s been tears, tantrums, frustrations, fun times, sad times, happy memories, pure joy and pride. It’s not been easy at times, and I have doubted myself lots. However, I’ve had lots of support from Fostering Barnsley, which I have needed at times."
"I have many incredible memories, including getting an update on a young man I previously fostered before he was adopted alongside his sister. Seeing photos of him sailing the world as a merchant seaman makes it all worth it."
"That's my foster carer journey, and what an adventure it’s been."
If Helena’s story has got you thinking about fostering, Fostering Barnsley is always looking for new carers and our friendly team is here to support you every step of the way. Book a call back to find out more!
*All names have been changed in order to maintain confidentiality.
