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In this episode of the Voices of Fostering Podcast, host Tim is joined by Meshak, a trainer at the National Fostering Group. Meshak discusses his multifaceted role, which includes developing and delivering training for foster carers and colleagues, with a key focus on empowerment and mental health. 

The conversation covers the innovative and supportive methods used to train foster carers, including breakout sessions, case studies, and discussions. Meshak also introduces  National Fostering Group’s Book Club, explaining how it started, its growth, and its impact on personal and professional development. The book club serves as a supportive network where foster carers and professionals can share perspectives, learn from each other, and apply new knowledge in their roles. 

Meshak emphasises the importance of understanding various topics such as autism and attachment theories to improve the fostering experience. The episode concludes with an encouragement for listeners to join and participate in the book club to further their learning and support network.

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In this episode of the Voices of Fostering Podcast, we are joined by Gill, a panel advisor with over 30 years of experience in social work within fostering. Gill delves into her role, explaining the function and importance of the foster care panel in the approval process of foster carers.

The discussion provides a comprehensive overview of what prospective foster carers can expect during the panel meeting, including the criteria evaluated, the supportive environment of the panel, and the qualities sought in foster carers.

Gill also addresses common misconceptions about the panel and offers valuable advice for individuals who are about to undergo this critical step in their fostering journey.

Tune in to gain deep insights into the fostering approval process and the essential role of the foster care panel.

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Welcome to another heartfelt episode of Voices of Fostering! In this episode, host Helen sits down with Joanne and her sons, Max (16) and Oliver (12), to share their inspiring journey as a fostering family.

Discover what it’s really like to open your home to foster children—from the initial decision and assessment process, to welcoming their first placements, and the everyday joys and challenges of family life with five children. Hear directly from Max and Oliver about their honest feelings, how fostering has changed their perspectives, and the special memories they’ve created with their foster siblings.

Whether you’re considering fostering, already on the journey, or simply curious about the impact it has on families, this episode offers valuable insights, advice, and encouragement. Joanne and her boys discuss the importance of communication, the power of empathy, and why fostering has become their “forever job.”

If you would like to find out more about fostering please visit our website here.

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In this episode of the Voices of Fostering podcast, we are joined by acclaimed author Patrice Lawrence. Patrice shares her compelling journey to becoming an author, rooted in her experiences of being privately fostered and growing up in a multi-ethnic family. 

She discusses the influence of fostering on her writing, the challenges of representation in literature, and how books can serve as powerful tools for empathy and understanding. 

Patrice also highlights her work in social justice and offers book recommendations for those interested in fostering. 

Join us for an inspiring conversation about the transformative power of stories.

If you would like to find out more about fostering please visit our website here.

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In this episode of Voices of Fostering, we sit down with Ashley John-Baptiste–a Cambridge graduate and BBC presenter–to discuss his extraordinary journey from foster care to academic and professional success.

Ashley shares deeply personal stories of his experiences growing up in various foster homes, the impact of dedicated foster carers like 'Joyce,' and his transition to adulthood. He also explores the resilience he developed and its application to his career and personal life.

Listeners will gain inspiration from Ashley's story and valuable insights into the importance of inclusivity, resilience, and support within the foster care system. Be sure to check out his book 'Looked After,' which sheds light on these crucial experiences.

If you would like to find out more about fostering please visit our website here.

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In this episode of the Voices of Fostering Podcast, Tim interviews Valda, a dedicated foster carer from London. Valda shares her journey of becoming a foster carer alongside her husband Richard, having started officially in 2016. 

She discusses the transition from their previous careers, their informal mentoring of children in need, and the challenges and rewards of fostering. Valda also describes handling complex cases involving therapeutic parenting, her accredited training in Strengthening Families, and the critical issues of gang affiliations and county lines that some foster children face. 

The episode highlights Valda’s unwavering patience, her insights about fostering, and the impact of building solid foundations for vulnerable children.

If you would like to find out more about fostering please visit our website here.

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In this episode of the Voices of Fostering podcast, host Tim welcomes Joann, a foster carer assessment manager at National Fostering Group. Joann provides a detailed overview of her role and what a typical day looks like, emphasising the variety and the unique challenges of her work. 

She discusses the essential qualities and experiences of successful foster carers and delves into the specifics of the foster care assessment process. 

Joann addresses common concerns and misconceptions, including questions about age and medical conditions, and offers valuable advice for those interested in starting their fostering journey. 

If you would like to find out more about fostering please visit our website here.

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In this heartwarming episode of Voices of Fostering, we sit down with Serwari, a dedicated foster carer with over 12 years of experience. Serwari shares her incredible journey, from overcoming personal challenges to fostering children from diverse backgrounds, including unaccompanied asylum-seeking children. 

She discusses her initial apprehensions, valuable support from social workers, and her rewarding experiences of seeing foster children thrive. Serwari also provides insightful advice for those considering fostering and the importance of support networks. Don't miss this inspiring episode and learn more about the transformative power of fostering.

If you would like to find out more about fostering please visit our website here.

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In this episode of Voices of Fostering, we chat with Paul, a foster carer who is just over a year into his fostering journey. 

Paul shares the motivations and inspirations that led him and his wife, Paula, to become foster carers. He discusses the challenges and adjustments they've made in their lives, especially in caring for a young boy with autism. 

Paul gets candid about the initial apprehensions, the assessment process, and how fostering has become a fulfilling part of their lives. Tune in to learn about Paul's experiences, the support systems in place, and his advice for potential foster carers.

If you would like to find out more about fostering please visit our website here.

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Join us in this episode of Voices of Fostering as we speak with foster carers Lloyd and Mary about their journey since transferring to National Fostering Group. Discover what inspired them to start fostering, the challenges they've faced, and how their past careers influenced their decision. Learn about their experiences fostering children with specific needs, the support they received, and the importance of the matching process. Gain insights and advice for potential foster carers, and hear about the rewarding and life-changing impact fostering has had on Lloyd and Mary's lives.

If you would like to find out more about fostering please visit our website here.

If you have any questions that you would like to be answered on our next episode email [email protected]

You can also follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Linkedin and YouTube