30th April, 2024
We love capturing foster carers in their own words. Back in January, we launched a campaign to do just that when we spent some time with the Blencowe family. To start, we shone the spotlight on Lynne’s perspective. Now we’re giving the limelight to husband Chris.
The couple began fostering in 1990 after careers in the police service when their eldest child was young. They had a break while they raised their family and then returned to their calling when their children had grown up and left home. They currently live in Marlow with their three foster children. Chris had this to say,
As a man over 50, Chris brings a wealth of life experience to the position of foster carer. Not confined to one role, he is a mentor, a teacher, and a positive role model for his children.
But Chris says that it’s in fact their growth which inspires him on a daily basis.
“Initially, you think your giving everything to the foster children. But in fact, I’ve learned more from the foster children.”
Chris feels that many of the skills needed to succeed as a foster carer were cultivated in his many years in the police.
“I did thirty years as an officer which equipped me with many skills, such as the ability to speak to anybody of any class, to have empathy, to be non-judgemental. These are all things you need to work as a foster carer.”
But perhaps the most rewarding aspect of fostering for Chris is the opportunity to leave a lasting legacy.
“I want to give them the best that we can, provide them with advice, with love, and that enables them to prosper in life… Hopefully, when they’re adults they’ll pass it on to their children too.”
Here’s to building a legacy that lasts a lifetime.
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Start the conversation today. Our team of friendly advisors are on hand to answer any foster care questions you may have. We can offer you honest and practical advice that can help you decide if becoming a foster carer is the right path for you.
