“I wish I’d started earlier because it is absolutely the best thing you can do.”

Jayne’s experience was similar. She had considered fostering earlier in life but waited until things felt more settled. As she puts it, “when my daughter was younger, I wanted to do it… and then it wasn’t the right time.”

Later on, after working and focusing on other parts of life, she reached a point where she felt ready: “I got to the stage where, yeah, I think now I’m going to give it a go.”

If you’ve ever wondered whether it’s “too late” to start fostering, their stories offer reassurance. There’s no single right moment, just the moment that feels right for you.

“Don’t let it hold you back”

One of the biggest concerns people sometimes have is whether they can foster as a single carer. Linda and Jayne are clear in their message: being on your own doesn’t mean being unsupported.

Jayne reflects honestly, “I don’t think I ever thought about the problem of being a single carer… obviously you haven’t got the support of your partner,” but she’s quick to add that this isn’t the whole picture.

What really matters is the wider network around you. As she explains, “we’ve got such a big support network and other carers… just don’t let it hold you back.”

That sense of connection has been an important part of their experience. Through training and shared experiences, they built strong relationships with other foster parents. Linda highlights how “we did a lot of training together and that way you build your relationships,” while Jayne adds that “it’s so important to build a relationship with other carers because your friends don’t really understand… if you’re not in that position.”

For many foster parents, that shared understanding becomes a vital source of encouragement and reassurance.

Understanding children’s experiences

Linda and Jayne are clear that children coming into care may need time to adjust.

Jayne explains, “don’t expect them to come in and be grateful, it’s like alien to them.” The routines, expectations and environment can feel completely unfamiliar, and “what you’re trying to get them to do is totally alien to them.”

That’s why patience—and a sense of humour—are so important.

As Linda puts it, “you’ve just got to have the patience to go with it,” while Jayne adds, “and have a sense of humour… you do have to laugh.”

This honest, down-to-earth perspective can help set realistic expectations for anyone considering fostering. It’s not about perfection – it’s about consistency, care and understanding.