Inspiring a different future

Eileen has made a difference to the lives of 13 children she has fostered over the last four years: “It is personally rewarding to see a child come out of their shell as they begin to feel safe. Watching their confidence grow living under my roof.”

“The children I’ve fostered have stayed with me for between a couple of days and six months. They are often placed with me because of tensions or worries they’re experiencing in their family home, or because a previous placement has sadly broken down.

"They come to me at difficult moments in their lives. I understand that. I do everything possible to make them feel comfortable and secure. Even if I know they will be moving to a more permanent home in a few days, I want the short time with me to be memorable, a springboard to give them a boost as they prepare for their next step, whatever that will be.

"I combine my love of walking and the great outdoors with the fostering experience, taking the children on walks. Some rarely visit the countryside. They find it uplifting and exhilarating, freedom to escape their worries. Trees, open fields, wildlife give us perspective, which hopefully the children will take into the next chapter of their young lives.

“Giving back, making a difference, it’s a big part of my life too. Alongside being a foster carer, I’m employed by Oxfordshire County Council as a social worker for adults, working in their health and social care team.

“Being a people person inspires me. Feeling that through opening my door to the foster children; and supporting adults in my professional capacity with the council, I am making a difference. The feel good makes it so worthwhile. Knowing you are giving something back to the community through your care and interest in others.

 “That is why I encourage anyone thinking of being a foster carer to find out more.

Eileen highlights the crucial role black women play in supporting children and young people in Oxfordshire.

We’re encouraging people from a range of different backgrounds, to consider becoming foster carers for us during Black History Month.

The theme of this year’s Black History Month is ‘saluting our sisters’, highlighting the crucial role that black women play in inspiring change and building communities.

There are currently 244 Oxfordshire County Council fostering households, including 37 black and minority ethnic carers.

#BlackHistoryMonth