Foster carer Ren is inspiring others to consider fostering in Derby and the East Midlands.
Ren has dedicated the past fifteen years to being a foster carer, with a special focus on children with special educational needs. As well as raising her own two children, she currently cares for two full-time foster children who have special educational needs. Ren’s passion for fostering began early, growing up in a family of foster carers who specialised in supporting children with SEN. She still helps her parents by providing regular respite care for their foster children. “A child with SEN is no different from any other child. They are just part of our family”, she says.
Inspired by her upbringing, Ren chose to become a foster carer herself once she had her own home and family. She, too, specialises in providing the extra support needed by children with additional needs, offering both full-time and respite care. “Every child needs different types of care, love, and support,” she explains.
One of the most magical moments in Ren’s life was adopting her son, Jacob. She began fostering Jacob, who has additional needs, when he was a baby and adopted him when he turned three. Ren doesn’t see challenges in caring for a child with SEN. “Children are children, and they are our family. As a family, we care for their needs,” she says. She emphasises the importance of acknowledging the unique needs of every child, whether they require short-term or long-term care.
When people remark on how difficult being a foster carer must be, Ren encourages them to focus on the positive impact they can have. “Don’t look at the negatives; look at the support and difference you can make in their lives,” she advises. Ren’s extended family is a strong support network, and she feels enriched by all the children in her life. “My family is my wide network, and we all support each other. I feel my family is enriched by all the children in my life.” Ren also praised the support she has received from the local authority. “I have received amazing support from Derby City Council; my social worker has been second to none. The professionals throughout my career have been incredible,” she says. “Fostering isn’t a job. It’s a way of life. It’s just us. You just need time in your heart.”
Fostered children do better
Children with SEN often fare better in foster care compared to residential homes, particularly in terms of emotional and social development. Foster care provides individual attention, in a more individualised and family-like environment. It offers consistent emotional support, which is crucial for children with SEN, and it can provide care which is tailored to specific educational and developmental needs. Foster care also provides opportunities for community integration, with broader social interactions and learning experiences. However, the success of foster care depends heavily on the quality of the foster family and the stability of the placement. Tailored assessments and careful placement decisions are crucial to ensuring that each child receives the most beneficial care possible.
There’s robust support and training to ensure foster carers are well equipped to meet the needs of the children in their care. This includes pre-placement training to prepare prospective foster carers with the necessary skills and knowledge. There’s ongoing training, with continuing professional development opportunities, and Support Services will ensure access to social workers, support groups, and respite care. You don’t need specific experience working with vulnerable children. If you can provide a welcoming and secure home where a child can feel safe and supported, you could be an excellent foster carer. Come along to an event and find out more—there’s nothing to lose and no obligation. You can book online and take the first step towards making a profound difference in a child’s life.
Foster for East Midlands
To find out more about fostering in the East Midlands, call 03033 132950 or visit fosterforeastmidlands.org.uk.