Could you change a young person’s life by becoming a foster carer?
Foster carers play a vital role in a young person’s life at a time when they need it the most.
Don’t just take our word for it, here’s what Sam Coupe, an Oldham care leaver and dad, has to say:
“Fostering has really made a huge difference to my life.
“Don’t get me wrong, being in foster care wasn’t always easy. You are nervous, scared and confused. The day before you are sleeping in your own bed and the day after you cannot go back.
“I made a lot of bad decisions and wrong turns when first in foster carer, and was very close to going down a really bad path.
“Luckily it was the very small things that my foster carers did that made me feel at home. I loved music and they bought me a guitar. They made me feel at home as much as I possibly could.
“Since I have left foster care, my carers have been there consistently, only a text or phone call away. I am now 22 and have a beautiful 18 month old baby daughter who is the life and soul of me.
“I am also in my dream job, an Apprentice Youth Worker, and I can give back everything what my foster carers gave to me. None of this would be possible without the support of my foster carers.”
You can apply to foster regardless of marital status, sexuality, race or religion, or whether you are in work or have a disability. All we ask is that you are over 21, enjoy working with children and have room in your home.
Carers receive a tailored support package, plus payments and allowances up to £29,000 per year (dependent on skills and experience).
If you’re interested, please call 0161 770 6600 or go to https://www.oldham.gov.uk/fostering