The Little Family We Have Become: Rosane’s First Year of Fostering

After just one year of fostering, Rosane already struggles to imagine life before it.

Alongside her grown-up daughter Rebecca, she currently cares for three children and has embraced the joys, challenges and unexpected rewards that fostering brings.

Drawing on her experience as a psychotherapist, Rosane felt called to make a difference to children who needed stability, love and support. She gives a moving account of how becoming a foster parent has truly changed her life, how she navigates fostering as a single foster parent, and the profound difference you can make to children’s lives.

 

Deciding to foster

Rosane’s decision to foster wasn’t something that happened overnight. Having spent many years supporting children and families through her professional career, she already understood the life-changing impact that a caring adult can have on a child’s future.

“I don’t see fostering as a job, it is more like a calling. I’ve always been drawn to supporting children and young people. Before becoming a foster carer, I worked for many years as a psychotherapist, helping children, families, and adults navigate difficult experiences. Throughout my career, I saw first-hand the profound difference that a safe, stable, and nurturing adult can make in a child’s life.”

Starting the journey

“I researched several fostering agencies before making my decision. FCA stood out because of its child-centred approach, comprehensive training programme, and the support available to foster carers. I wanted to feel part of an organisation that genuinely valued both children and carers, and FCA gave me that confidence from the beginning, the moment I made my initial enquiry.”

She shared more about her assessment journey:

“The assessment process was thorough, which I believe is incredibly important given the responsibility involved in fostering. But the months seemed to pass in the blink of an eye, and I genuinely enjoyed the process far more than I expected.”

“What surprised me most was how reflective and emotional parts of the journey were. The process invites you to look back at your own childhood, your life experiences, the people who shaped you, and the moments that contributed to making you the person you are today. At times, this was both challenging and moving, but it also gave me a greater understanding of myself and the values I wanted to bring into fostering.”

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The difference of fostering with FCA

For Rosane, having the right support around her has made all the difference, particularly as a single foster parent who also works alongside fostering. From day one, she has felt part of a wider fostering community that is there whenever she needs advice, guidance or reassurance.

“The support I receive from FCA has been invaluable, particularly as a single foster carer. From the very beginning, I’ve felt that I am part of a team rather than doing this alone. Everyone is approachable, supportive, and genuinely invested in achieving the best outcomes for the children. Knowing that there is always someone available to offer advice, guidance, or simply a listening ear provides enormous reassurance.”

“I especially value the relationship I have with my supervising social worker. I trust her completely and know that I can reach out whenever I need advice, whether I’m navigating a challenge or simply seeking reassurance that I’m on the right track. Having that trusted relationship has helped me feel more confident in my role and has made a significant difference to my experience as a foster carer.”

“Fostering can be emotionally demanding at times, but the support network provided by FCA helps you feel understood, valued, and never alone.”

Quiet confirmation you’re making a difference

Ask most foster parents about their proudest moments and they’ll often talk about the small things rather than the big milestones. For Rosane, it’s the everyday moments that show just how far children have come and how secure they feel within her family:

“I witness special moments and milestones almost every single day. Some of the most meaningful achievements are not the big events that everyone sees, but the small everyday moments that show how far the children have come and how safe, loved, and settled they feel.”

“One moment that has always stayed with me was when my 11-year-old foster kid casually said, ‘It doesn’t feel like I’m in care’. To many people, it might sound like a simple comment, but to me it meant everything. It was one of those moments that quietly confirms you’re making a difference.”

“The bedtime moments are particularly special. There is something magical about hearing ‘I love you’ before lights out, knowing that the children are going to sleep feeling safe and cared for. The school run is another favourite part of my day: Dropping them off in the morning and seeing the excitement in their eyes, knowing they feel confident enough to face the day because they know I have their back, is incredibly rewarding.”

“Then there are our family film nights, which bear very little resemblance to actually watching a film – nobody can hear a single word over the chatter, the floor is covered in popcorn, we’ve missed half the story, and we’re all laughing too much to care. To some people, it might sound like complete chaos. To us, it’s our magic chaos. It’s our way of being the little family we have become.”

“When I look back on my young fostering journey so far, it is the everyday moments of connection, belonging, laughter, and love that I treasure the most. Those moments remind me why fostering is so important and why it has become such a meaningful part of my life.”

These quiet moments of trust, belonging and connection are the ones Rosane treasures most and are a constant reminder of the difference fostering can make.

Children don’t need perfection

Rosane reflected on her first year of fostering and what she has learned from her experience: “If I had to sum up my fostering experience in one sentence, I’d say it’s the most rewarding adventure I’ve ever signed up for – and more love than I could ever have imagined. Every day is different, and while there are certainly challenges along the way, the joyful moments far outweigh them.”

“What has surprised me most is how naturally we have become a family. The children have brought so much energy, laughter, and personality into our home. Our lives are fuller, noisier, and much happier because of them.”

“One of the things that makes me smile the most is the relationship they have developed with my daughter, Rebecca. They absolutely adore their big sister and look up to her as a positive role model. Watching that sibling bond grow has been incredibly special.”

“Fostering has strengthened my belief that children don’t need perfection; they need consistency, patience, love, and someone who believes in them. Of course, fostering comes with challenges, but it has also brought immeasurable joy, love, and purpose into our lives. Watching the children grow in confidence, feel safe, begin to see their own worth, and simply enjoy being children has been one of the greatest privileges of my life.”

Fostering as a single foster parent

Many people assume fostering as a single person would be difficult, but Rosane believes it reinforces that families come in all shapes and sizes.

“Being a single foster parent has certainly brought challenges, but it has also been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. I’ve gone from being a single parent of one to being a single parent of four – it’s multitasking on a completely different level!”

“Of course, there is no one else to share the day-to-day responsibilities, so organisation, flexibility and resilience are essential. Some days can feel like managing a small business, a taxi company, a restaurant, and a counselling service all at the same time!”

“At the same time, being a single foster parent has been incredibly empowering. I’ve learned to trust my instincts, rely on the support available to me, and create a stable, loving, and nurturing environment for the children. My daughter has also been an amazing source of support throughout our fostering journey and together we have built a home where everyone feels welcomed, valued, and cared for.”

“Like any family, we have our busy days, our funny moments, and our occasional chaos, but there is always love at the centre of it all. Being a single foster parent has shown me that families come in many different shapes and sizes, and what matters most is not how many adults are in the home, but how much care, commitment, and love the children receive.”

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A house becoming a home

Fostering can bring so much to your life as a foster parent and Rosane shared with us some of the things she has found most special:

“One good thing I wish I’d known before starting fostering is just how much love would come into my life. Before becoming a foster carer, I understood that I would be making a difference in children’s lives, but I never imagined how much they would change mine. These children had been through so much, yet they still found space in their hearts to trust, connect, and love me back. That is something I don’t think anyone can fully prepare you for. I could never have imagined that just one year later, I would struggle to remember what life was like before they came into it.”

“When I look at where the children were when they first arrived and compare it to where they are now, I realise that the real difference is not found in one single moment. It is found in all the small moments that have added up over time. The most powerful have been the moments when they showed that they truly felt they belonged. Watching them gradually stop seeing our house as somewhere temporary and instead refer to it as home has been incredibly moving. It is difficult to put into words what it means to witness children who once lived with uncertainty begin to feel safe, secure, and loved as part of a family.”

Don’t underestimate the difference you can make

Rosane is passionate about encouraging others to consider fostering. She believes many people underestimate the impact they could have on a child’s life and the rewards that fostering can bring in return.

She said: “Children in care don’t need perfect carers; they need caring, committed adults who are willing to be patient, consistent, and present. My advice would be not to underestimate the difference you can make. You don’t need to have all the answers. What matters most is being willing to learn, seek support, and provide a safe and nurturing environment.”

“Fostering may give you the opportunity to change a child’s life, but it also changes your own for the better – and watching a child discover their strengths, build confidence, and begin to believe that they deserve good things in life is worth all the effort.”

While fostering may begin with a desire to help a child, it often becomes a journey that changes your own life too.

 

If you want to make a difference to children by providing a loving home, please get in touch with our team to find out more about fostering.

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You are required to have a spare bedroom that’s always available to a foster child. The spare room cannot be shared, and must be big enough to fit a single bed, a wardrobe and a chest of drawers.

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Is Fostering an Option for Single Parents?

If you’re a single parent considering fostering, join us as we explore whether it’s possible, the common concerns people have about fostering as a single person, and the benefits it can have on your own children and those you foster. 

Can you be a single foster parent? 

Absolutely! You can foster whether you’re in a relationship or not. In fact, many members of our fostering community here at FCA are single foster parents, making a significant difference in the lives of children and young people every day. 

Every child is different, and we need foster families of all shapes and sizes to meet their unique needs. Sometimes, children aren’t able to live with a particular gender, so being able to offer a child a safe and nurturing home as a single person can be a lifeline for these children.  

Meet Alison, a single foster parent who has been fostering since 2017. She shares how fostering has enriched her life, and the little things that have made a big difference. 

Common single foster parent concerns 

If you’re thinking about becoming a single foster parent, you may have some concerns about how you’ll manage the responsibilities of fostering solo. Below, we address the most common worries and explore the ways in which FCA will help you manage the challenges of fostering.  

 

Who will I turn to for support? 

It takes a village to raise a child. So, before you apply to foster, reflect on your support network. Do you have people to turn to in case of an emergency or if you need someone to care for the child you’re fostering at short notice?  

During the application process, you’ll need to demonstrate that you have a strong support network, as this will help lighten the load and make your fostering journey more fulfilling.  

When you foster with FCA, you won’t be alone on your journey. You’ll become part of a supportive community that works together to improve outcomes for children in care – this is known as our Team Parenting model. Our community of support for foster parents includes: 

  • 24/7 support: Whether it’s day, night, morning or noon, you’ll have access to support whenever you need it. 
  • Dedicated social worker: Your social worker will help you understand the needs of the child in your care and how to meet them. They’ll also support you by answering your questions and providing advice and guidance throughout your journey.  
  • Fostering experts: A vital part of the Team Parenting model is ensuring every aspect of a child or young person’s well-being is cared for. So, you’ll have access to a network of fostering specialists, including therapists, education leads, social workers and participation officers, who’ll support the child’s development and well-being.  
  • Support groups: Our foster parent support groups and meet-ups allow you to get to know other foster parents in your local area. Many of our foster parents become good friends, leaning on each other through challenges and celebrating achievements.  

Can I fully support a child on my own? 

Yes, because with FCA, you won’t be supporting a child on your own. Not only will you receive the support already mentioned, but the child in your care will also receive personalised support directly from our team.  

We listen to our children and young people, giving them a platform to share their thoughts in our Young People’s Forum, and we use their feedback to improve our services. We also host support groups for children, providing them with space to share their experiences and build friendships with other children in care.  

We host activities and events for the whole family, encouraging our children and young people to make decisions about what we’ll be doing and to actively participate in special events, such as the Big Sing Off choir competition.  

We take a therapeutic approach to caring for children and young people, which is why you’ll receive extensive training to help you understand their experiences and learn techniques to manage care at home. You’ll also have access to our therapy groups, where you can fine-tune your skills and learn from other foster parents’ experiences. 

Can I afford to be a single foster parent? 

If you live in a one-income household, it’s only natural to be concerned about the financial implications of becoming a single foster parent. That’s why, at FCA, we make finances one less thing to worry about. We value our foster parents, so when you foster with us, you’ll receive a generous fostering allowance that is typically tax-free, along with additional perks that will enrich both your life and the lives of the children you care for.  

Foster care pay is calculated based on the number of children you foster, their ages, the type of fostering you choose, and the region you live. This pay currently averages £487 per week per child and is designed to cover the costs of caring for a child, as well as provide a professional fee to reward you for your dedication and hard work.   

You’ll also receive:  

  • A £250 bonus in the summer and winter. 
  • An annual appreciation bonus, ranging from £150 – £1000, depending on how long you’ve been fostering with us. 
  • Access to our exclusive referral scheme, where you can receive up to £3000 for every friend you refer who becomes an approved foster parent. 
  • A gift or experience for every fostering milestone you reach. 
  • Chances to win prizes and recognition for your commitment in our monthly ‘Time to Shine’ awards. 
  • Access to our foster parent rewards platform, which helps you save money on everything from high street shops and online retailers to theme park trips and meals out.  

Can I work and foster? 

Yes, you can work and foster. However, because you’ll be fostering solo, you should consider whether balancing work and fostering is feasible. You’ll need to be available to take the child in your care to school, appointments, meetings and family time arrangements. You’ll also need to be able to take time off at a moment’s notice if your child is unwell.  

 Here are a few things to consider if you’re thinking about fostering alongside working:  

  • How flexible is your employer? Will they be understanding of your situation if you need to take time off at short notice? 
  • How many hours are you hoping to work? For example, working part-time may be more feasible if you foster a school-aged child and work while they’re at school.  
  • What type of fostering are you hoping to do? For instance, if you intend to offer emergency fostering or respite care, working may still be viable because you won’t be fostering full-time.  
  • What age group are you hoping to foster? Small children require more hands-on care, while teenagers tend to be more independent.  
  • Do you want to foster a child with complex needs? If so, they’ll need more time and attention, so fostering alongside working may be less feasible.  

At FCA, our priority is the safety, stability, and well-being of the children and young people you care for. So, if you hope to continue working alongside fostering, speak to one of our advisors, who can walk you through the practicalities in more detail.  

How will fostering impact my own children? 

If you’re fostering as a single parent, you may be wondering how it will impact your own children. In fact, fostering can have many benefits for your own children, including:  

  • Sharing: Your child will learn how to share their home, possessions, and you with their foster sibling, which will help build their character. 
  • Empathy: Living with a foster sibling who has had difficult childhood experiences will help your child learn how to empathise with others. 
  • Celebrating differences: If you foster a child from another race, religion, or culture than your own, your child will learn about diversity and how to embrace and celebrate differences. 
  • Social skills: Your child will have opportunities to meet and talk to children from various backgrounds, helping them develop social skills and build meaningful connections.  
  • Relationships: Your child will have a chance to build a long-lasting friendship with their foster sibling, which could positively impact their future relationships and social interactions. 

At FCA, we are here to support your whole family. Not only do our therapy services extend to your children, but they’ll also receive guidance and have the opportunity to connect with other children who foster so they can share their experiences. 

How to become a single foster parent 

If you’re ready to take the next step and begin a new career where you’ll make a real difference every day, we’d love to hear from you. Becoming a foster parent is a life-changing journey, and it all starts with an enquiry. Our friendly team will guide you through the process, answer any questions you have, and ensure you meet the following initial requirements: 

  • You must be 21 or over, but there’s no upper age limit to foster. 
  • It doesn’t matter whether you rent or own your home, but you’ll need a spare bedroom that a child can call their own. 
  • You must have the legal right to live and work in the UK.
  • Your relationship status, sexual orientation and gender identity don’t matter. What’s most important are your personal qualities – like patience, compassion, and resilience.   
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