Jan's story
Haringey resident Jan J became a foster carer three years ago after she gave up full-time work for health reasons.
A former probation officer and director of a third sector organisation, she has so far taken on two placements - a family of three siblings who she looked after on a short respite basis, and a teenager who now remains living with her as a care leaver under the national ‘Staying Put’ scheme. Jan now works part-time alongside fostering. She is offered ongoing support and training and also goes to support groups aimed at foster carers.
Jan said:
“I was going to be spending more time at home and wanted to do something worthwhile. Initially, I only wanted to foster four to 11-year-olds, but my first placement was a family of three children aged eleven, six and one, which was quite demanding and a different experience. Now, I have a teenager living with me, which has also been quite eye-opening.”
"I still get lots of support and am regularly in touch with my social worker, even though the teenager staying with me has left care now. I’m really pleased I made the decision to become a foster carer and would urge anyone who is thinking about it to give it a go. Of course it has been demanding and challenging but I have really enjoyed it, I’ve learned a lot about myself as well as lots of new skills. The rewards far outweigh any challenges.”