Children standing on beach at sunset

Fostering stories

Read and watch fostering stories

We welcome foster carers from all walks of life, and all backgrounds.

Below, a few of our foster carers talk about their experience of fostering with Barnardo's in a selection of written accounts and videos.

Showing 1 - 10 of 21

  • Sharon and Tim’s experience

    Sharon and Tim live in Leicester and have four adult children, one foster child, and a dog. The couple have been fostering for six years.

  • James: “I'm living proof that fostering makes a difference"

    When James was 14 he was put into emergency foster care. Thanks to some dedicated carers and a supportive Barnardo’s project worker he was able to thrive. He’s now a Barnardo’s project worker, using his experiences to help other young people.

  • Sylvia and David’s story

    A couple from Aberdeen who recently retired from fostering are appealing to others to consider the worthwhile difference they can make to children’s lives. 

  • Andi and Laura's story

    Read how Andi and her daughter are thriving after getting support through parent and child foster care.

  • Soynnia's story

    Soynnia, 60, lives in the West Midlands. Soynnia currently fosters a 14-year-old boy called James* and is birth-mum to two children now aged 34 and 31 and grandmother to four grandchildren. 

  • Ali and Liz's story

    Alison and her partner Liz have been together for over 20 years and have been short break foster carers for Barnardo’s NI for just over a year.  Liz has previously worked in the education and arts sectors and Alison is a chef. They have just embarked on their first full time foster care placement.  

  • Two adoptive fathers smiling with their two sons

    LGBT Fostering stories 

    A few of our LGBT+ foster carers talk about their experience of fostering with Barnardo's in a selection of written accounts and videos.

  • Young boy on see-saw

    Types of foster care

    There are many different kinds of foster care, specific to each child's situation. Find out more about the many ways you can provide care for a child who needs your help.

  • Young girl smiling at camera in garden

    Enquire about fostering

    The first step towards joining the Barnardo's family is getting in touch. Complete our online form or find details about alternative contact methods here.