As part of Foster Care Fortnight 2026 and this year’s theme, “This is Fostering”, we are continuing to share stories that recognise the care, patience and commitment shown by foster carers across our community.
Jodie was nominated by Lisa, who wanted to recognise the difference Jodie has made as a foster carer with The CFT.
Jodie has been fostering with The CFT for the last five years. For over a year, she has been caring for two siblings, J and J. The first eight months were described as a whirlwind, with the boys bringing lots of energy and needing a great deal of time, patience and support.
“For the first 8 months caring for J & J has been a whirlwind! The boys are lively to say the least and keeping them occupied for any period of time has been a challenge.”
During this time, Jodie has worked hard to support the boys in many different areas of their lives. This has included helping them with their relationship with one another, supporting their relationship with her two birth children, working with education services and the Local Authority, and making changes within the home environment to better meet their needs.
Jodie is described as a reflective carer who looks beyond children’s behaviour to understand what may be going on for them in that moment. She gives her time endlessly and works hard to create a home where fairness is encouraged and all children are treated the same.
“Fairness is a value which is always encouraged in the family home and all the children are treated the same.”
One of the things that stands out in Jodie’s nomination is the thought she puts into helping children enjoy life and create positive memories. She is creative with play and activities, takes time to think about what interests each child, and will travel miles if it means giving them new experiences.
“Jodie makes life ‘fun’ for children.”
Jodie has also had to carefully balance the needs of everyone in her home. Her two birth children were impacted when J and J first moved in, particularly in the earlier months. Jodie has worked hard to make sure all the children receive her time, both individually and together.
This is part of what makes her story such a strong example of fostering. It shows the patience, creativity and resilience it can take to help a household adjust, while making sure every child feels included, valued and heard.
“In times of challenge she does not ‘give in,’ and will work endlessly to think about what could be going on for that child.”
Jodie’s commitment can also be seen in the everyday moments. She makes sure she attends every school event, from plays and sports days to celebration assemblies. She helps children feel listened to, heard and supported.
Her dedication has never wavered, even through challenging periods. Lisa’s message to Jodie, and to her girls, was full of appreciation:
“I want to say Thank you Jodie, and to your girls, you show children such love, care and give your time endlessly.”
Seeing how J and J have changed over the past year is a reflection of the safety, care and consistency Jodie has created around them.
Thinking about fostering?
If stories like this inspire you, and you’d like to learn more about becoming a foster carer, we’d love to hear from you.
Get in touch with our team via our enquiry form: Contact The CFT About Fostering
