Sharon and Tim Sayers reflect on their journey of fostering a teenage boy in Leicester
Leicester: Sharon and Tim Sayers began fostering with the idea of offering short-term placements. But when they met their third foster child, everything changed. They decided to make him a permanent part of their family.
They shared with LeicestershireLive that they wanted this teenage boy to have a stable home. The thought of him leaving was just too hard to bear. He’s been with them for nearly eight years now, and they truly love him like their own son.
Of course, it hasn’t always been easy. Their foster son has some additional needs, which means they’ve had to be really resilient at times. But those little moments, like when he calls them “mum” and “dad,” make it all worthwhile.
Sharon mentioned how it warms her heart to hear him tell his friends, “My mom said I can’t.” It shows he feels like he belongs, and that’s what they want for him—a sense of home that he can always count on.
Mr. Sayers added that when a child starts calling you “mum” and “dad,” it’s a big deal. It means they’re settling in and feeling safe. That shift in their relationship is a huge breakthrough.
The couple fosters through Barnardos, which has been a great support for them. They’ve received helpful training and have met other foster parents who understand what they’re going through.
They said it’s comforting to know they’re not alone. Sharing experiences with other foster carers makes challenges easier to handle. It’s nice to realize that they’re not doing anything wrong when they face difficulties.
They also have a Barnardos social worker who checks in regularly and is always available if they need help. It’s reassuring to have that support.
When asked about advice for potential foster parents, Mrs. Sayers suggested attending an introductory meeting with an organization like Barnardos. They went in with an open mind, not expecting to foster right away.
She also recommended talking to someone who already fosters. Those conversations were incredibly helpful for her.
Mrs. Sayers emphasized that fostering is about meeting basic needs, but it’s also about emotional support and providing a loving home. You don’t need to be wealthy or live in a big house to make a difference.
Barnardos is currently urging families in Leicestershire and beyond to consider fostering, as there’s a growing number of children entering the care system. They’ve labeled this situation a national crisis.
To raise awareness, Barnardos has opened its archives and shared historical photos of fostering families. Brenda Farrell, the UK Director of Fostering and Adoption for Barnardo’s, highlighted the urgent need for more foster carers.
She pointed out that the UK is facing a foster care crisis, with many children at risk of being placed in unsuitable situations due to a lack of loving homes.
According to Ofsted, the number of applications from prospective foster households has dropped significantly, making it harder for children to find safe placements.
