Debbie’s journey into fostering began long before she officially became a carer. Growing up as the eldest of five in a home affected by domestic abuse, she learned early what it meant to take responsibility and look out for others. That experience left her with a lifelong instinct to protect children and a deep commitment to ensuring they feel safe and supported. Debbie reflects, “I’ve always had a passion for children. I couldn’t stand seeing them upset or hurt, and I knew I wanted to make a difference in their lives.”

After leaving school, Debbie joined the military, met her husband, and raised their own children while moving frequently, sometimes overseas. Becoming a foster carer felt impossible during those years. It was not until a chance encounter with a poster at a train station, and later attending a local fostering information session, that she realised this was something she could pursue. Listening to a 17-year-old who had grown up in foster care speak confidently about his future inspired her to take the first steps. Debbie recalls, “Seeing how far he’d come and how much support he had made me think, we could do this too, and it could change lives.”

The assessment process required Debbie and her husband to reflect on their own pasts, which was emotional but ultimately rewarding. Debbie believes the process is important because it helps carers understand themselves and better support the children in their care. Delving into her own experiences gave her perspective and strength as a carer, reminding her that fostering isn’t about being perfect, it’s about caring and being there for the children. When they were formally approved as foster carers, the sense of relief and achievement was overwhelming. Debbie remembers, “I cried after panel. It was such a release, finally knowing we could make a difference for a child.”

Debbie and her husband offered their first foster child a home during the COVID-19 pandemic with just 20 minutes’ notice, a 10-week-old baby boy who needed immediate care. They provided a safe and loving home for over two years before he returned to his mother. Debbie highlights that foster care is not only about providing temporary care, but also about maintaining and supporting family connections wherever possible. She says, “It’s not just about taking children away, it’s about supporting them and their families so they can be reunited when it’s right.”

Since then, many children have become part of Debbie’s family, each contributing to the household with their own stories, milestones, and memories. Some have returned to their families, others have moved on to adoption, but all remain valued and remembered. Debbie shares, “Each child leaves their mark on our lives. Even when they move on, they are part of our family forever.” She has created a home where children experience firsts such as trips to the zoo, visits to London, and other life experiences, as well as the trust and security that come from feeling safe enough to talk about difficult experiences.

Being part of the Mockingbird fostering network has provided additional support, creating a community of carers who understand the challenges and rewards of fostering. For Debbie, it has offered friendship, reassurance, and the sense of extended family that makes the journey even more fulfilling, saying “Mockingbird makes you feel like you are part of a bigger family. There’s always someone to talk to who understands exactly what you’re going through.”

Debbie does not hide that fostering comes with challenges. There are sleepless nights, emotional moments, and farewells that are never easy. However, she firmly believes in the positive impact fostering has on children’s lives.

When Debbie was asked what she would say to anyone considering becoming a foster carer, her answer was clear:

Just do it. You will never regret it. Fostering changes lives, not just for the children, but for you too. It’s emotional, challenging, joyful, and incredibly rewarding all at the same time.

Councillor Paul Hezelgrave, Lead Cabinet Member for Foster for East Midlands, said:

Foster carers like Debbie play a vital role in giving children a safe and loving home when they need it most. Every child deserves the chance to feel supported and valued, and fostering offers an incredible opportunity to make a lasting difference. We hope more people will consider taking that step and changing a life for the better.

If you are interested in fostering for your local council or want to become a foster carer, take your first step today. Find out more by visiting Foster for East Midlands Councils web page or call 03033 132950.