Inspired Foster Care | FCA Fostering News

April 01, 2008

Being a male foster carer can often bring with it a unique set of challenges but Dave King (51), from Bolton Le Sands in Lancashire, is an inspiration to anyone who is thinking about fostering.

Working with the UK’s leading independent fostering organisation, Foster Care Associates (FCA), Dave is a primary carer responsible for looking after some of societies most troubled youngsters. His commitment is second to none and despite the ups and downs he faces on a day-to-day basis he remains positive and upbeat.

It takes energy and determination to succeed as a foster carer and Dave and his wife Pricilla (46) make a great team by bringing hope, happiness and a sense of achievement into the lives of the foster children they care for. Over the years the couple have welcomed almost 20 looked after children and young people into their home.

Despite having coped with some complex physical and mental disabilities which both their birth sons suffer from, Dave and Pricilla also have a custodial son whom they fostered, initially at the age of four months. It is this level of unswerving commitment and compassion which really sets them apart because no matter what life throws at them, they have the resilience to remain positive.

Prior to being a foster carer, Dave worked as a shop manager for a national charity but found an increasing need to spend time at home with his family. Contacting FCA and discussing the options of fostering from a male perspective brought about the realisation that he had a number of transferable skills. Since then he hasn’t looked back.

“Making a positive difference to the lives of the children we care for is what it is all about,” says Dave.

“All the boys we have looked after seem to thrive and develop a true sense of identity which is so important. I’m always encouraging them to develop interests whether this is drawing or playing sport. I believe every child has an individual talent and it’s just a case of having the patience and understanding to explore various avenues with them.”

He adds: “The greatest pleasure is to see the children turn the corner and overcome many emotional hurdles. At the end of the day, they are seeking stability and security from a happy and caring family environment. If we are able to do that, then I truly believe we have made that positive difference.”

With the support provided by FCA, Dave and Pricilla have the full back-up from a team of professionals who are dedicated to ensuring the needs of every foster carer and foster child are met. On-going training and regular meetings and forums at a local level provide the necessary tools to ensure each carer is properly equipped for the fostering task.

FCA has a strong presence across the North West with eight offices across the region including a regional headquarters in Manchester. With the national shortage of foster carers around 10,000 across the UK, FCA is continually seeking to attract new carers who believe they have the skills to take up this challenging yet hugely rewarding role.

Anyone who is interested in finding out more about fostering should call FCA on freephone 0800 085 2225 or visit the website www.iwanttofoster.com