Two Years at Foster Care Matters,  Nearly 20 Years in Fostering – written by Deb Reid, Recruitment & Foster Family Matching Coordinator at Foster Care Matters…

Today marks my 2nd work anniversary at Foster Care Matters and I honestly can’t believe how quickly those two years have flown by.

As I’ve been reflecting today, I’ve found myself thinking not just about the last two years, but about my journey in fostering over the last 20 years. During that time, I’ve spoken to thousands of people about fostering. Some decided it wasn’t right for them, some were simply curious, and many went on to become foster parents. What has never changed is my belief that every conversation matters, because the person you’re speaking to could one day become exactly what a child needs.

One of the things I love most about my role as Recruitment and Family Matching Coordinator is being part of the start of that journey. I love talking to people from all walks of life about fostering, hearing their stories, answering their questions and, for some, seeing them later at our Prepare to Foster training as they take the next step.

When I think about my time at Foster Care Matters, it’s the people who stand out most. I’ve felt valued, listened to and supported, and I’ve built some lovely relationships with colleagues who welcomed me and made me feel part of the team. It has reinforced my belief that strong working relationships really do make a difference, not only to us, but ultimately to the children and families we support.

There have been some proud moments along the way, including our first Ofsted inspection and celebrating Foster Care Matters’ own anniversary, but often it’s the everyday moments that mean the most.

One memory that has always stayed with me from earlier in my career was matching three siblings with a couple who were new to fostering and had recently been approved. Having met them during their assessment and worked closely with their assessor, I felt they were the right match. Those children are now adults and remained with that family throughout their childhood. Experiences like that remind me why family finding and matching matters so much, and how privileged I am to play a small part in bringing children and families together.

As I celebrate two years at Foster Care Matters, I feel incredibly grateful. Grateful to work alongside amazing colleagues, foster parents and families, and grateful that after almost 20 years in fostering, I still feel just as passionate about it today.

To everyone I’ve spoken to about fostering over the years, thank you. Whether it was a quick enquiry or the start of your fostering journey, I haven’t forgotten the privilege of being part of it.

Here’s to many more conversations, connections and opportunities to make a difference.

Interested in fostering? We can’t wait to talk to you.