Our foster carer stories - Mark and Helen

Mark and Helen are a caring couple in their 50s with a deep commitment to fostering and their family. They expressed how their experience in care has helped them to foster care for our local children.

"We have three adult children and several young grandchildren, who bring added warmth and energy to our family gatherings. With years of parenting experience, we feel we offer a stable, loving environment where children feel welcomed and secure."

"I’m (Mark), a former secondary school physics teacher and Helen, who overcame a difficult childhood, works part-time in retail. Together, we specialise in helping children transition from residential care to family fostering, providing a safe, supportive environment for children who have previously been without a family setting."

"Our adult children are actively involved in the fostering journey, often visiting with their own young children, which helps fostered children experience a larger, welcoming family atmosphere."

"They also provide additional support, from helping with school pick-ups to engaging foster children in family activities, making them feel part of a vibrant, loving network."

"The entire family also shares in our faith and commitment to our local church, reinforcing the values of kindness, acceptance, and community."

"Through our combined efforts, we like to think we offer a compassionate, family-centred home where children can regain trust and feel valued, preparing them for a successful transition into a home to call their own."

Read more foster carer stories