Fosterline England will be closed from 5pm on Thursday 28 March and reopening at 9am on Tuesday 2 April 2024. You can still leave us a message during this time, and we’ll respond to your message after the Easter Break. If you are worried about a child, please contact your Local Authority.
Fosterline England will be closed from 5pm on Thursday 28 March and reopening at 9am on Tuesday 2 April 2024. You can still leave us a message during this time, and we’ll respond to your message after the Easter Break. If you are worried about a child, please contact your Local Authority.
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TV star from The Only Way is Essex (TOWIE) Debbie Douglas is also a foster carer and fostering ambassador for the Department for Education. Debbie has been fostering for over two decades and shares her thoughts on how to survive being a foster carer. Debbie said:

“The 10 things I’ve learnt about surviving being a foster carer are:

1. Warmth and kindness always shines through. Smile. Because those who don’t smile back need it the most.

2. Every single child that comes into your home will be scared. (wouldn’t you be ! ) their fear will empty out in a million different ways.

3. No matter what journey they have travelled they will always love their family. Home is home.

4. Never go to bed on a argument..in your darkest moments tomorrow is another day.

5. Words are cheap actions are powerful. Show them you love them unconditionally ……. the simplest of gestures speak thousands of words.

6. There are always reasons for behaviours. It is about you finding them.

7. You will be many things…. a carer….a nurse….a friend ……a coach….. a teacher …..a therapist…..a night whisperer. Be prepared to wear many hats.

8. Educate yourself beyond every comfort zone you can imagine because to wear all these hats education is powerful.

9. Never judge…never think you hold the answers. Sometimes there aren’t any. It’s called acceptance.

10. Love truly conquers all.”

If you are a current foster carer and need to talk to someone in confidence or if you are considering fostering, call Fosterline for help and advice on 0800 040 7675. Our advisers are available Monday to Friday 9.00am to 5.00pm; if you prefer you can request a call back for a time that suites you.

Thinking of fostering?

Can you foster? Can you change lives? Take our survey to see if you fit the criteria to foster children and young people. Are you that person who can make a difference in a child’s life?