A Now Foster Story: I’m looking forward to being inspired, learning, and challenging my perspective
Laurie is one of our co-founders and also a newly qualified foster carer. She lives with her partner Cindy in a lovely house on the Welsh border. Laurie and Cindy are just at the beginning of their fostering journey and are keen to share their home with teenagers in care. Cindy works full time as a wedding venue owner/ coordinator and Laurie works 3 days per week on Now Foster.
How would you describe yourself as a person?
Excitable, nerdy, logical, and stubborn with a passion for social justice. I’m quite outgoing and enjoy going on different adventures in our campervan with the dog. I would say I am an extroverted introvert; I like socialising and going out for drinks and meals but also love cosy days in to recharge. I am passionate about fighting for those who aren’t easily heard.Many of the people that know me say that I think differently and am always open to exploring alternative perspectives.
Where are you on your foster parent journey?
We qualified as foster parents in February. As we have lots of plans until April, we are hoping to be able to care for foster children from May. We are able to plan fostering around our life and work.
Why did you decide to foster teenagers?
Teenagers fascinate, challenge and make me laugh in equal measures. With teenagers, you don’t have to do the school run twice a day, tie their shoe laces or bathe them, there is an element of flexibility in fostering teenagers, especially as we both work. Watching teenagers grow into adults, think and act for themselves with you as a guide, I don’t think there is anything more rewarding, it makes me smile from ear to ear.
What are you most worried about?
Teenagers are often portrayed in the media as scary: hoodied, drug-dealing and violent, it’s no wonder that there is a shortage of foster carers for them. My biggest worry is that the pain and trauma they have experienced so far in their life, stops them from becoming the best version of themselves. The stereotypes don’t worry me, I have things in place for the unlikely worst case scenario (insurance and emergency numbers).
What are you looking forward to?
I’m looking forward to giving a sense of safety, consistency, fun, discussion and boundaries to some of the most vulnerable teenagers in our society. I’m looking forward to being inspired, learning and having my perspective challenged, something I’m sure foster kids will do. I’m looking forward to getting it wrong, reflecting, learning and trying again.
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