Peter and Vivian's story
Fostering teenage siblings long-term
Peter and Vivien, started fostering when Peter was doing shift work as a police officer. They were first approved as short term foster parents. They then became long term foster carers and now foster a sibling group of three teenagers. Vivien says that having a stable home environment helps raise self esteem and worth. It also shows that someone will listen and advocate on their behalf.
Peter and Vivian - foster carers
It's not always a smooth road but that’s life. Listening, encouragement, praise, and star charts are tools we use and they help reap rewards.
"Some people may see shift work as a disadvantage. With planning and a bit of effort it can be a tremendous advantage. 15 years on I'm retired from the police but not from fostering!
"When a child says 'thanks for listening' you feel really good. When they challenge you, you try to change roles and understand their perspective, but at times it's not always easy. Patience and a non confrontational attitude are great assets.
"We have enjoyed helping our foster children develop into caring young adults. Also we are helping them maintain contact, wherever possible, with the children’s family.
"It's not always a smooth road but that’s life. Listening, encouragement, praise, star charts, are tools we use and they help reap rewards."
Contact us
If you're interested in fostering, you can contact the fostering team for more information and advice.
Did you know?
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Long term fostering allows children and young people to stay with a foster carer for a longer period of time, allowing them to feel safe and secure.
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There's no upper age limit for foster carers. As long are you're fit and healthy, you can apply.
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Many children and young people in care will have experienced difficulties at home and will benefit from guidance and support from foster carers.
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As a foster carer, you'll earn a weekly tax-free allowance depending on the age of the children.