AHEAD of the forthcoming Fostercare Fortnight (check out a host of events on Thurrock Nub News' Whats On pages) the spotlight has been fixed on a borough mum and grandmother whose contribution to fostering with Thurrock Council for eight yearshas helped change the lives of around 30 children.

Single mum Caroline's journey into fostering wasn't immediate. It took several years of thought, attending information events, and the right life circumstances before she decided to apply.

While working full-time at a local council, Caroline was concerned about how she could balance fostering with the demands of her job.

"I worried I wouldn't be able to foster well while working overtime or responding to crises at short notice."

However, these experiences ultimately gave her invaluable skills that would later support her fostering role.

After being made redundant, Caroline knew the time was right. She began her fostering journey with Thurrock Council, which for Caroline, was an easy decision.

"It made sense to me to foster local children."

advertisement

As a single parent, Caroline found the assessment process easy to manage and appreciated the flexibility to fit training sessions around her own schedule. In particular, she found the mandatory Skills to Foster training engaging and supportive, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and learn from others.

Since becoming approved, Caroline has mainly looked after children aged five and over, with a particular experience in caring for teenagers. She's approved to foster sibling groups, provide respite care, and offer emergency placements.

Her commitment to continuous learning has seen her complete a wide range of additional courses, and she is actively involved with her local foster carer association.

Caroline says the best thing about fostering is knowing she's making a real difference.

"You're changing a life, giving children a childhood and a better way to grow up. When you see a child who's happier and more settled because of the care you've provided, it makes everything worthwhile."