One of our Foster for East Midlands foster carers, Pat, along with her partner Stuart, have been a foster carers for over 36 years in Derby City, dedicating their lives to providing love, stability, and a sense of belonging to vulnerable children.
For Pat, fostering runs in the family. Long before she was born, her parents had fostered, setting an example that would eventually inspire her. Years later, as a mother of three young children, Pat felt drawn to fostering after overhearing a conversation. “My oldest was only about 18 months old when I heard someone talking about fostering. I thought, ‘I wouldn’t mind doing that.’ And that’s where it all began,” she recalls.
Over the decades, she has opened her home and heart to countless young people, many of whom she still keeps in touch with today. Her journey is a testament to the profound impact foster care can have—not only on the lives of the children but also on the carer, as each child brings their own story, challenges, and joys.
Her first placement was a 14-year-old girl who arrived just three days before Christmas, clutching self-wrapped presents. “It was chaotic, but we managed,” Pat reminisces. That young girl stayed with Pat until she was 17, moving into her own flat. Even today, they remain in touch. Pat beams as she remembers her saying, “If it weren’t for you, I wouldn’t be who I am today.”
Every child Pat has cared for leaves a long-lasting impression. She has never counted how many children she has cared for in the 36 years, as she tends to take children for long-term fostering. Pat mentioned one child came for two weeks and stayed six years.
Pat believes in the transformative power of fostering, saying, "Every child deserves a chance to feel safe, loved, and valued. Fostering isn't just about changing their lives—it's about changing yours in ways you never imagined. Fostering isn’t always easy, but it’s worth it. You give kids a chance at a better life, and sometimes, they give you back more than you ever expected."
Pat ensures that the children in her care lead active and fulfilling lives. From family activities like swimming and bike rides to park outings, she believes in creating joyful memories. She explains, “The financial support I receive allows me to provide enriching experiences for the kids—days out, fun activities, and everything they need.”
Recently, Pat and Stuart were given an extraordinary surprise when a former foster child nominated them for recognition on the Ant & Dec’s Saturday Night Takeaway show. As part of this special acknowledgment, they were thrilled to receive tickets for a holiday, which they are excited to take in early 2025. Pat shared her joy at the experience, saying, “It was such an incredible surprise and a reminder of how appreciated foster carers are. Moments like these make the journey even more rewarding.”
At 65, Pat shows no signs of slowing down and currently cares for three long-term children. “Fostering has become such a big part of my life, and I still find it incredibly rewarding. I wouldn’t trade this experience for anything,” she says with passion.
Pat’s unwavering commitment and compassion have made her a source of inspiration for those considering fostering for their local council.
Cllr Paul Hezelgrave, Lead Council’s Cabinet Member for Foster East Midlands said:
Pat’s 36 years of dedication as a foster carer is truly inspiring. Her commitment has transformed countless lives, providing children with love, stability, and opportunity. On behalf of the council, I want to thank Pat and Stuart for their incredible contribution to our community and for making such a positive impact on the lives of local children.
If you’ve been inspired by Pat’s story, consider exploring fostering at one of the upcoming Foster for East Midlands information events. These sessions provide an opportunity to learn about the fostering process, hear from current carers and young people, and ask any questions you may have. There’s no pressure—just a welcoming space to explore how fostering could fit into your life.
Upcoming information events:
- 9 January 2025, 6:30pm – 7:30pm (Online Zoom)
- 16 January 2025, 5pm – 6pm at Stapleford Library, Nottingham NG9 8GA
- 20 January 2025, 6:30pm – 7:30pm at Derby City Council House, Derby DE1 2FS
- 28 January 2025, 12:00pm – 1pm (Online Zoom)
- 12 February 2025, 3:30pm – 7:30pm at Post Mill Centre, South Normanton DE55 2EJ
- 19 February 2025, 6:30pm – 7:30pm (Online Zoom)
To book any event, visit fosterforeastmidlands.org.uk/events.
For more information, visit fosterforeastmidlands.org.uk, call 03033 132 950, or email hello@fosterforeastmidlands.org.uk.
Join us and foster for your local council to make a meaningful difference while keeping children in their local communities.
