This is my sixth year in as a permanent carer to my first foster child who is now 15, and my second year in with two of his siblings (a boy aged 13, a girl aged 12) as their long term therapeutic foster carer.  I’ve been a foster carer with Westcare and now with Anglicare.  I’ve also worked in the field as a social worker in child protection, family work and out of home care (Anglicare, Wesley, and Oz Child). 

 

When I did my training as a child protection worker, I remember two barristers saying they couldn’t think of any other profession where you were as accountable for what you did do as for what you didn’t do.  As a carer, I can’t think of any other voluntary role that is so personal, so deeply affecting, and sometimes seemingly without end – it’s 24/7!  Yet it is also so very rewarding (when you get the chance to stop and think).

 

At the moment I’m a single, stay at home dad with a dabbling interest in creative writing but not much discipline.  I believe foster parents provide an invaluable role in helping hurt children to feel loved, whole, and valued – to believe in themselves.  I believe that the FCAV Board contribute a valuable service and support to foster carers, and look forward to being part of that process.