Care and support

Mia

I don’t really know what made me stop at the foster care stand that day at the Herts County Show but it was definitely one of the better decisions I have made in my life. I was very pleasantly surprised when, at the initial information evening, I found out just how many different types of ‘foster caring’ there are.
There were many questions I had swirling around in my head. Would I have the time? Would they want me as a single person? Can I do it if I haven’t had any kids of my own before?

All my questions were answered, my confidence grew and I decided to give it a go. I was still undecided of what sort of fostering to do but I soon decided that shared care would suit me best.

The shared care team has been great and has supported me every step of the way. I was matched with my current family and have been with them for over a year now. The match could not have been better and the child I work with is fantastic. I say work with but I have never thought of it like that. Heidi was diagnosed with a rare genetic condition called Angelman Syndrome, Autism and Epilepsy. Physically she is like any other six year old but she suffers from epilepsy and autism and is unable to speak or communicate her needs to others.

From the initial visit I felt at home. Heidi’s parents are great. They have never made me feel anything but completely comfortable and accepted. They still astound me with their trust and faith in me. Although my home has been approved, I always use their family home as a base. It just seems logical as Heidi is far more comfortable in her own surroundings and everything she could possibly need is there.

The shared care hours are usually on a weekend but we always save up hours for the school holidays. During these times we go on many an outing - farms, swimming, walks, the list is endless. I have Heidi on my own at times but I also join other members of the family as another pair of hands. I think this adds to the positive and happy relationship I have with Heidi.

As a carer, your role is to enhance the life of the child and ease the strain on the family but I think that the enhancement is definitely for the carer too. I love my time with Heidi and I miss her and her family greatly if there is a significant time between our visits. I would really like to think that this year working with Heidi is the first of many more to come.