As part of Foster Care Fortnight 2026 and this year’s theme, “This is Fostering”, we are sharing stories that show the difference foster carers can make in the lives of children and young people.
Tracy and Wayne were nominated by Natalie Davis, who wanted to recognise the support they have given to a young man in their care, who turns 18 in June.
“This year Tracy and Wayne have gone above and beyond in every sense of the word in their support of H.”
He came to live with Tracy and Wayne just before his 16th birthday, at a time when school was not a positive place for him. Over the past year, they have supported him with his education, helping him achieve both his maths and English GCSEs, as well as passing his joinery course.
“In this last year Tracy and Wayne have supported H around his education and he has passed both his maths and English GCSE and passed his Joinery course.”
These are huge achievements. Education and employment milestones can be challenging for any young person, but even more so when they have had barriers to overcome. He kept going, and Tracy and Wayne continued to encourage him.
They also supported him to start driving lessons, spending time finding an instructor who could work around his college commitments. In January, he passed his driving test on his second attempt, and Wayne helped him find a car and get it on the road.
Their support did not stop there. Wayne has always spoken about his work ethic, and after lots of searching, Wayne’s son helped put him in touch with someone offering interviews for a joinery apprenticeship. He went for the interview, smashed it, and was later offered the job.
This progress came through persistence, encouragement and practical support.
“They were persistent and kept going to help H overcome barriers and succeed.”
Natalie also highlighted the way Tracy and Wayne support him as part of their family. They are very supportive of their own adult birth children, and they have supported him in the same way, helping him move towards adulthood with care, belief and guidance.
“They are superstars and care very much for the people they care for.”
Her message to Tracy and Wayne was simple:
“You are both great foster carers with big hearts. You have made a massive difference to young people you care for.”
Tracy and Wayne’s story is a reminder that fostering is about steady support, consistency and helping young people take their next steps with confidence.
If these stories have inspired you to learn more about fostering, we would love to hear from you.
Fostering can make a life-changing difference for children and young people, offering safety, stability and a place to feel part of a family.
There are many different ways to foster, and our team is here to talk you through what it could look like for you.
Get in touch with us through our enquiry form here:
https://thecft.org.uk/enquire-today/
