As part of Foster Care Fortnight 2026 and this year’s theme, “This is Fostering”, we are sharing stories that reflect the care, commitment and support that sit at the heart of fostering.
Anna was nominated by a foster family who wanted to recognise the difference she has made as their Supervising Social Worker. For them, Anna’s support has gone far beyond the expected parts of her role. She has been someone who understands their family, listens to what they need, and steps in when support matters most.
“Anna goes above and beyond her role as a Supervising Social Worker to support our family.”
The family shared that Anna has supported them in many ways, but one moment in particular stood out.
When O was reluctant to go on a short break, Anna spent more than two hours with the family, gently and therapeutically encouraging him to go with her. O was still feeling very anxious and did not feel ready to go that day, so they decided to try again the next day.
Anna then gave up her own family commitments to drive an hour to meet them on a Saturday and take O to the short break carer.
“Anna has done many things to support us but one time in particular she was super amazing!”
For O, this support made a real difference. Anna understands him well and knows how to meet his needs, which helped him feel more relaxed and somewhat happy to go on the short break.
For his foster carers, it meant they were able to have the break they needed, knowing O was safe, settled and with someone he trusted.
“Anna’s kindness gave us the short break that we needed.”
This kind of support is a reminder that fostering is not something carers do alone. Behind every foster family, there are people who help make difficult moments feel more manageable, who understand the needs of the child, and who recognise when a family needs time to recharge.
Anna’s care for the family is also shown in the everyday ways she offers support. She has offered to take O out to give his carers a break, taking him to places he enjoys, including the zoo, train stations, parks, meals out and more.
“Always caring about us and our family, Anna offers to take O out to give us a break.”
The family also shared how Anna has stood beside them when they have needed to advocate for O. When they pushed for the local authority to listen and change O to a different school that would better meet his needs, Anna supported them fully.
“Anna is very supportive towards us and has backed us 100% when we have pushed the LA to listen and change O to a different school that will meet his needs.”
Anna’s nomination also recognises the patience and understanding she brings to her work with O. She manages his different behaviours calmly and does not take difficult comments personally, helping him feel accepted and understood.
Her support has helped the family feel listened to, backed up and cared for. Whether she is helping with a short break, spending time with O, supporting school decisions or simply thinking of ways to make life easier, Anna has made a lasting difference.
Interested in fostering with a charity with exceptionally experienced and supportive staff? Get in touch for a no-obligation chat about fostering:
https://thecft.org.uk/enquire-today/
