The Life-Changing Rewards of Fostering: Councillor Barnard’s Inspiring Story
Fostering can be one of the most rewarding decisions you'll ever make—and Nottingham Councillor and former foster carer, Cllr Barnard, knows this first-hand. Through her personal journey, she has seen how fostering doesn’t just transform a child’s life—it strengthens families and enriches communities.
In honour of Foster Care Fortnight 2025 and its theme of ‘Relationships’, Cllr Barnard shares her story to inspire others to explore the life-changing impact of becoming a foster carer.
Why Fostering Matters: A Personal Perspective from Cllr Barnard
“If you're interested in fostering, my advice would be to start by finding out as much as you can,” says Cllr Barnard. “There are so many different types of fostering—more than I ever realised when I first looked into it myself.”
From emergency and respite care to short-term and long-term placements, fostering is flexible and can suit a wide range of lifestyles and family dynamics. Whether you are single, in a couple, working full-time, or retired, there is likely a fostering option that fits your life.
“It’s about discovering what’s right for you and your family,” she adds.
The Importance of Support and Stability in Fostering
Cllr Barnard highlights that fostering is a shared family commitment.
“One of the first things I realised is how vital it is that your whole family is on board. You can’t do it alone—it’s a shared commitment.”
That shared effort creates a nurturing environment that helps children heal and thrive. “Welcoming a child into your home and offering them stability, care, and love is incredibly rewarding,” she says. “You're not just giving them a roof over their head—you’re helping them rebuild trust and confidence.”
Watching a child flourish in a safe and caring home is something that stays with you for life.
Building Lifelong Relationships Through Foster Care
At the heart of every successful foster placement lies one key element: relationships.
“You build strong connections with the children you care for—and sometimes with their birth families too,” says Cllr Barnard. “I still receive Christmas cards every year, thanking me for being there and making a difference.”
Some children may move on and lose contact, and that’s okay. Others become a permanent part of your life.
“One of my girls—she’s 50 now—knows she can always pick up the phone, and I’ll be there. That’s what fostering is all about.”
How Local Councils Are Working Together to Improve Foster Care
Foster Care Fortnight 2025 also celebrates the growing collaboration between councils to improve foster care across the region.
“It’s brilliant to see four local councils—Nottingham City, Nottinghamshire, Derby City, and Derbyshire—working in partnership,” says Cllr Barnard. “By sharing resources and best practices, we can reach more potential carers and provide better support.”
Through the Foster for East Midlands Councils initiative, children are better matched with the right foster homes—regardless of location. This partnership keeps the focus where it belongs: on the needs of each child.
Start Your Fostering Journey Today
“Having experienced it myself,” says Cllr Barnard, “I can say with real confidence that fostering is one of the most meaningful things you can do.”
If you're thinking about becoming a foster carer, now is the perfect time to take the first step. Join a growing network of carers making a difference across the East Midlands.
Call: 03033 132 950
Visit: fosterforeastmidlands.org.uk
Learn how you can change a child’s life—and enrich your own.
Image below was a gift from a former foster child to Cheryl.
