Melanie became a foster carer because her grandchild was in care

Melanie is 51 and from Chester, she has fostered with Cheshire West and Chester Council for 10 months. Melanie became a foster carer as her grandchild was in care.

Can you tell us a little bit about yourself and your family?

“I’m married with 2 daughters aged 25 and 23. I’m a manager of a service with adults with learning disabilities I really love my job. As a family we like to eat together at meal times go on annual holidays and also we enjoy a movie at the weekend.”

Who lives at home?

“Myself, my husband, my eldest daughter and my grandson.”

Do you have any advice for anyone thinking of becoming a foster carer or starting the process?

“Really make sure it is what you want to do as it does affect your whole life but it is so worth it and the joy he has brought into our home.”

What have been the positives of fostering?

“Watching him grow and develop a personality, we are doing days out that I did not think I would be doing and are great fun.”

What have been the challenges?

“We knew the first year was going to be the hardest” Melanie and her family have dealt with changes in their routine, social worker involvement and family dynamics but “we got through it”.

What changes have you seen in the children you have fostered?

“Settled, happy and part of a family structure.”

What small things have made a big impact?

“The love we receive in return and the laughter that now fills our home.”

What have been your best memories so far?
“His funny personality and the bond he has built with both my daughters.”

What impact has fostering had on your family?

“Closer and also doing more as a family, very positive.”

How do you find the support we give you? Do you have close relationships with other foster carers?

“The social workers have been amazing offering lots of advice.”

If you are interested in becoming a foster carer, you can request an Information Pack by clicking here >>

Alternatively, why not pop along to one of our Information Sessions? We have in-person Information Sessions and virtual Information Sessions.