How did you get started?
I've always wanted to be a foster carer, inspired by my aunt who fostered twins. As a single mother with a good job, I didn't feel confident enough to foster full-time. While living in Yorkshire, I saw an advert for Respite Carers and decided to try it. I enjoyed it and had many children stay for weekends, doing fun activities together.
In April 2020, during the pandemic, I was approved as a full-time foster carer for two children aged 5-18. It's the best and hardest job I've ever had. Now, I work as an Enquiry Officer for Foster with West London, recruiting and supporting new foster carers, and I'm also a Fostering Ambassador. Sharing my passion for fostering with others has been incredibly rewarding.
What is your connection to Hammersmith & Fulham?
I moved from Yorkshire to Harrow in 2023 to be closer to my family after my son-in-law was posted to RAF Northolt. It was a bold move, but the best decision I've made. Now, I'm an approved foster carer for Harrow.
During my assessment, I learned about a job in Hammersmith & Fulham, applied, and got it. I regularly travel to the main office on King Street in Hammersmith, which is vibrant and buzzing. I love the food market days with their diverse cultures and cuisines. The people are friendly, very Yorkshire.
What is a typical day in the life of a Foster with West London enquiry officer?
My day as an Enquiry Officer starts with reviewing evening enquiries from people interested in fostering. Alongside my colleagues, I contact them, usually by phone, to discuss fostering—the good, the bad, and the challenging. I'm passionate about fostering and share both the joys and difficulties honestly.
I explain the requirements and the six-month assessment process, helping people decide if they're ready to start their fostering journey. Once I gather their information, it's shared with their chosen Local Authority within Foster with West London.
I also support and guide people through their fostering journey, answering questions and checking in to ensure they're comfortable with the process.
What is your favourite part of the job?
My favourite part of the job is hearing why people choose to start fostering. Reasons include their children leaving home, wanting to give back to the community, and helping children in need. I'm amazed daily by the kindness and generosity of those who welcome a child into their homes—it's a wonderful gift.
What is the most challenging part of your job?
Our greatest challenge at Foster with West London is that there are not enough foster carers in West London - over 700 are needed. My colleagues and I work hard to reach people in the community to let them know about fostering and encourage them to take the first step.
Fostering is such a rewarding thing to do, and I would love more people to ask for information so that they can decide if it would be a good fit for them.
What makes H&F Council a great place to work?
I've spent my career working for local authorities, and H&F feels different - I feel valued and cared for. As a foster carer, I need to work flexibly, and my supportive manager helps with this. When I had a young person who often woke at night, my manager allowed me to start my day later, which I appreciated.
What do you like to do in your free time?
I have a standard poodle named Atticus, and we love exploring the green spaces in Harrow. He dislikes the tube, so we stick to parks where he can run. I moved here to be near my daughter and son-in-law.
I currently foster two teenage boys, which keeps me busy. On weekends, Atticus and I enjoy sitting outside the Pinner cricket club, watching the games and meeting new people.
