Adam and Lucas’s fostering journey started three years ago when they were introduced to New Routes fostering agency.
Adam said, “For us, it was really important to play a part in providing a safe and happy environment for children whose welfare wasn’t being met. We were introduced to New Routes by my auntie who has been fostering with them for over 20 years.”
Lucas said: “We were fortunate that we had some awareness of what fostering involved which helped with the initial contact with the agency. Although we were a little apprehensive of the unknown, we need not have been as the staff was approachable and friendly resulting in a smooth transition from making the initial call to being approved as foster carers.
“We currently have three children in our care, two of whom are siblings who have recently been matched with us long term. We also had three short-term respite placements prior to the three children currently placed.”
New Routes are keen to dispel myths around fostering, particularly who can foster. A spokesperson from the agency said, “You do not have to be married or have had children. You can apply to become foster carers whatever your marital status, sexual orientation, religious background, and so on. The children and young people we find homes for come from a wide range of backgrounds, so we are looking for foster carers who reflect that diversity. What is essential is that you enjoy the company of children and young people and have a genuine desire to make a difference in their upbringing.
“You do need to have a room for each child, undergo various checks, and be willing to attend training. We offer training and support at every stage. We also hold social events so you can meet other foster carers.”
Lucas said, “New Routes are genuinely the Rolls Royce of fostering agencies. They provide excellent support training and guidance as well as being there for a friendly chat. To be a foster carer you need to make sure you have sufficient time, love, and a spare room, as well as having a genuine passion to want to make a difference.”
Adam said, “The rewards of supporting looked-after-children are immense and provide them with the foundation to building a good life. We couldn’t recommend fostering enough, it’s the best thing we ever did. The only regret we have is not doing it earlier.”
Based near Birmingham, New Routes welcome inquiries from people living in the East and West Midlands. It is operated by the social care charity Father Hudson’s Care, which provides services and local projects that support people facing various challenges and adversity.
If you would like to find out more about how you can help children and young people on their journey, you can contact New Routes on 01675 434025, email [email protected] or go to www.foster-carers.org.uk.
Names have been changed to protect the identities of looked-after children.
