“I think my age has given me a level of wisdom and perspective that helps me guide the young people in my care.”

Despite the challenges, Jane has experienced so many moments that have made fostering deeply rewarding. “Some of my best fostering moments have been seeing young people achieve things like getting accepted into university or finding stable housing,” she explained. “But it’s also about sticking with the difficult moments, supporting them through the hardest parts of their journey.”

Fostering has transformed her life in ways she hadn’t anticipated. “Sharing your home with people is a very different experience from working with them in other contexts. You build real, ongoing relationships with the young people, and you’re proud of everything they achieve,” Jane shared with a smile. “I’m very proud of all of them.”

Age is Not a Barrier to Fostering

As a single foster carer, Jane acknowledges that there are challenges, but she’s quick to point out the support she receives from both her personal network and FCA. “You get support from friends, family, and from FCA. It really makes a difference,” she said. “Sometimes you just need to listen to people, get advice, and remember that you’re not doing it alone.”

Jane also shared her perspective on how age has not been a limitation in her fostering journey. “I don’t think age is a barrier to fostering,” she said confidently. “At 70, I still feel I’ve got it in me. In fact, it can sometimes be an asset.” Jane emphasised that her wealth of life experience and patience has proven invaluable when caring for young people, especially those who are navigating the challenges of growing up in care.

She fondly recalled a young man she had fostered for a long period, explaining, “One young man I looked after for a long time was very shy. He didn’t want his friends to know he was in care, so he lived with his nan. But we had a really strong relationship, and I still keep in touch with him.”

For Jane, fostering isn’t about age—it’s about the heart, resilience, and the ability to offer the kind of stability and support that young people need. “You have to be patient, kind, and understanding,” she added. “And I think my age has given me a level of wisdom and perspective that helps me guide the young people in my care. I never let age hold me back from offering a loving, supportive home.”

What Makes FCA Special?

What sets FCA Western apart is the small, close-knit community they create. “It’s a small region, so you really get to know everyone. There’s a lot of continuity, and you build strong relationships with the staff,” she said. “The sense of family and togetherness is a big part of what makes FCA special.”

Jane credited FCA’s ongoing training and support as playing a vital role in her fostering journey. “The training has always been very good,” Jane said. “The support groups are fantastic, and you get the chance to meet other carers, share advice, and learn from each other. There’s something special about being in the room with others who are in the same situation.”

Supporting Unaccompanied Asylum-Seeking Young People

As part of her role, Jane has fostered unaccompanied asylum-seeking young people, with FCA supporting her through the transition. “FCA has been wonderful in helping me understand different cultures and religions, especially when I started fostering young people from different countries,” she said. “The resources they offer, like Welcome Wednesdays in Bristol, have been invaluable in helping young people adjust to life in a new country.”

“It’s been so interesting, and your feelings towards the young people grow so strong. You form lasting relationships with them, and I’m proud of each and every one,” Jane concluded.

Could You Foster?

If you’d like more information about becoming a foster parent with FCA or the support we offer single foster parents, we’d love to hear from you. Enquire with us today to learn more, or read more stories from real-life foster parents about their experiences.