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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.

If you have any questions that you would like to be answered on our next episode email podcast@nfa.co.uk

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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.

If you have any questions that you would like to be answered on our next episode email podcast@nfa.co.uk

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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.

If you have any questions that you would like to be answered on our next episode email podcast@nfa.co.uk

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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.

If you have any questions that you would like to be answered on our next episode email podcast@nfa.co.uk

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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.

If you have any questions that you would like to be answered on our next episode email podcast@nfa.co.uk

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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 podcast@nfa.co.uk

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In this episode of Voices of Fostering, we welcome back Pat, a dedicated foster carer who shares her emotional journey over the past year.

Despite facing significant challenges, Pat's resilience and the support from her fostering agency helped her through. Pat talks about the ups and downs of fostering, including successfully integrating routines and addressing anger issues in a young boy.

She also discusses the importance of making children feel safe and loved. Join us to hear Pat's inspiring story and learn about the realities and rewards of fostering.

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 podcast@nfa.co.uk

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

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In this episode of Voices of Fostering, we dive into the Mockingbird Program, an innovative fostering model based on the philosophy that it takes a village to raise a child. Hosts Darren, a foster carer, and Kate from Heath Farm, explain how the program works, its benefits for both children and carers, and why it has been successful for over a decade.

Learn about the community-driven support system that provides foster families with a network of care and resources, making fostering a more enriching experience for all involved.

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 podcast@nfa.co.uk

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