30th June, 2025
It took a pandemic for me to make the best decision of my life, deciding to foster with Excel Fostering. I saw people doing so much for others and felt compelled to do more. I had requested a brochure about fostering around 10 years ago, but back then it was clear I didn’t have the availability that children in foster care needed. Then I heard an advert on the radio about fostering and thought, what’s my excuse this time?
I’d been fortunate in my life. The mistakes I made as an angry, out of control teenager had not stopped me achieving my dream of having my own smallholding. A far cry from my six months in HMP Holloway some 30 years ago.
My life had changed direction as a young adult when someone approached me with positivity and saw past my “bad kid” label. I wanted to do the same for other young people. I really relate to children. I’d been involved with my nieces and nephews from an early age right into early adulthood.
I’d worked hard, qualified as a Chartered Accountant, and had my own business for over 20 years. During this time, I always tried to help young people through apprenticeships and work experience. I often employed people who needed a second chance. I spent many years rescuing dogs, horses and recently sheep and goats. I have lots of open space and I kept thinking if a child needed to be able to run or just go and cuddle the horses, what a therapeutic place this would be for them. Just as it is for me.
Deciding to foster was one thing, but would my personal circumstances impact my ability to see it through?
How was I ever going to get past the first stage?
I did a Google search on fostering and Excel came up along with some other agencies. I went straight to the FAQ section; Can I foster if I have a criminal record? It seemed that it wasn’t a straight no.
I spent a few weeks revisiting Excel’s website as it had that caring feeling and such a positivity about it.
Then, whilst on Facebook one day an ad from Excel popped up. It was a sign. I knew in that moment it was now or never. And I couldn’t bear the thought of never.
So, I hit send button and my life would be changed forever.
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