Rejhan’s story – I have a lot to give
In the five years that Rejhan Sylejmani has been a foster carer, she has fostered four teenagers aged between 13 and 19.
The 39-year-old Refugee Council worker is single and lives in East London but fosters children from Hammersmith & Fulham.
Rejhan says: “I first got involved because of my job. I have been working with separated refugee children for many years and I saw that there was a gap in local authorities in addressing their needs effectively. I wanted to see better communication and understanding of cultural differences. So I decided to do something about it.”
Rejhan admits that she took a long time between wanting to become a foster carer and actually becoming one. She says: “I was concerned that I might not be able to cope with everything but one thing to remember is that you are not alone when you foster young people.
“A whole team of professionals support you every step of the way to gain the skills you need. I have regular supervision and training, and there are plenty of opportunities to meet with other carers to discuss our experiences. Sometimes, I might just need reassurance that I’m offering the right support to my young person.”
Kindness and patience are just two characteristics that Rejhan thinks a foster carer should have.
“I’m a maternal person and love children very much. I feel that I have a lot to give and offer to a young person, and I foster because I want to make a difference to children’s lives. For me, the best thing about fostering is to witness how children can thrive when they’re surrounded with unconditional love, acceptance, opportunities and support to allow them to be the best they can be.
“If your heart is in the right place and you have space in your life, you should contact the fostering service.”
Page last updated: 13/05/2011
