In our latest feature on the work of Thurrock Fostering and the difference it makes to the lives of many children, we learn about Vera - who turned her own life around while helping young people in need.

AFTER spending more than three decades working with children as a teacher, retirement was originally supposed to be an opportunity for Vera to slow down.

Instead, it became the start of a new chapter.

Wanting to continue making a difference in the lives of young people, Vera became a respite foster carer with Thurrock Council, using her skills and experience to support children and young people when they need it most.

"I've worked with children for 36 years and I know a lot of children can benefit from the skills that I've developed. I wanted to provide children with stability and a safe home where they can thrive, develop their confidence and do well at school."

Respite foster carers provide short-term care for children and young people, supporting both the children and their full-time foster families.

For Vera, the role offers the perfect balance between helping others and maintaining flexibility in her own life.

"The good thing is that I control my own timing, so I do respite when I am fully available to do everything I can to make children happy, safe and secure."

She believes respite fostering plays an important role in supporting full-time foster carers, giving them the opportunity to take a break while knowing the children they care for are safe and well looked after.

"It's important for foster carers' wellbeing that they have these breaks. It's good when they know the children are going to a safe place. Not only do I support the children, I also help foster carers have time to refresh themselves."

Although Vera's background in education has helped prepare her for fostering, she says one of the biggest surprises has been how much she learns from the children she cares for.

From discovering different cultures and foods to sharing hobbies and activities, every experience brings something new.

"I love it because I get to meet different children. I learn about different diets, different cultures and different interests. It's not just me teaching them things, I learn from them as well."

"Some children like dancing, so I dance with them. Some like playing guitar. I've never played one before, but I have a go. They love it when they can teach me something."

After retiring in 2024, Vera decided that a quiet retirement was not for her.

Having already considered fostering before leaving work, she applied to become a foster carer and began caring for children in early 2025.

She describes the assessment process as thorough but supportive, with guidance available at every stage.

"The social workers guide you through everything step by step. If you have questions, they're there to support you and help you through the process."

Since becoming a respite foster carer, Vera has welcomed a number of children into her home, with many returning for repeat stays.

For her, that is one of the most rewarding parts of the role.

"Most of the children who have come to stay with me have come back again and again. It makes me feel good because it tells me they were happy here and felt comfortable enough to return."

For anyone considering becoming a foster carer, Vera's advice is simple: focus on the child and the difference you can make.

"Look after them like your own children. Take the time to understand them, support them and help them believe in themselves. When you do that, you get to see the very best in them."

Could you become a respite foster carer?

Respite foster carers provide short-term care and support for children and young people while helping foster families manage holidays, family commitments and planned breaks.

The role offers flexibility and can fit around work, family life or retirement, while giving you the chance to make a lasting difference to a child's life.

To find out more about fostering with Thurrock Council, visit thurrock.gov.uk/fostering