When a friend suggested becoming a foster carer, Jill jumped at the idea.
“I was single, I had a spare bedroom and I was working part-time. I felt like I was in a good position to become a foster carer,” says Jill.
“That was over 4 years ago now and I’m so glad I took her advice.”
Jill started her foster care journey as a respite carer.
During that time, 2 young siblings were regularly placed in her care following a number of placement breakdowns.
“I was the go-to person when things went wrong and over time I formed a close bond with them,” says Jill.
In March 2019, the young boy and girl were placed into Jill’s care for a short-term placement.
Then 6 months later, Jill decided to take the siblings in on a long-term basis.
“My family have been very supportive, and the children are part of our family now,” says Jill.
“I couldn’t imagine life without them here. We’re a good little team.”
Jill recently moved to a new house so the children could have a backyard and more space to play.
Jill says there have been plenty of challenges along the way. But the bond she has developed with the children has helped overcome any obstacles.
“Because you don’t know the trauma that they’ve been through, you don’t know what could be a trigger for them,” says Jill.
“But the most important thing is to make them feel safe and secure.
“Every child deserves the chance to have a normal childhood and if you have the time and love to give them, that’s all they need.”
Please note, the photo accompanying this story is for illustrative purposes only. It is not a photo of the people featured in this story.
