Kim, 57 is a single foster carer to two young girls with cerebral palsy and is keen to advocate that a lack of experience, or not having a large home, should not be barriers to coming forward. Kim has been fostering for 16 years.
“My first foster child was a new-born baby who, as he grew older, had difficulties lifting his head and learning to speak. He was later diagnosed with cerebral palsy.
"We very much grew together, learning from each other what worked. Although I get ongoing training and support from Essex County Council the child themselves is often the best teacher."
In the family home, Kim has a daughter aged 20 and a son aged 24, alongside her two foster children. Three daughters and a son have already moved home to start their own lives. The whole family agree that it has changed their lives for the better.
“Helping a child focus on the things that they can do, as opposed to the things they can’t do, has had a really positive influence on our own approach to life. We’ve all grown to be much more compassionate and understanding of other people’s needs.
Read Kim's story.