When John and Carol saw an advert about fostering, they had no idea just how much it would change their lives, and the lives of the young people they would go on to care for.
“Our children had grown up and moved out, and the house suddenly felt too big,” says Carol. “We realised we had the space, time, and experience to offer something meaningful to children who really needed it. We thought, maybe we can make a difference.”
Since then, the couple has opened their home and hearts to children from all walks of life, offering a safe, supportive, and loving environment. One story in particular stands out for John.
“We took in a girl who was 14 at the time. She’d had a tough upbringing” he recalls. “She stayed with us for almost three years before moving on to independent living. A year later, she rang me and said, ‘John, would you do me the honour of giving me away at my wedding?’ That moment meant everything, that’s when I knew we’d made a real difference.”
John and Carol remain in touch with her today, now a mother herself. It’s stories like this that inspire them to encourage others to consider fostering.
“So many people say, ‘I couldn’t do that,’ but actually, you can,” says Carol. “You’d be surprised how many skills you already have just from raising your own family or through life experience. It’s challenging, yes, but it’s the most rewarding thing we’ve ever done.”
The couple believes strongly in treating foster children as part of the family. They involved all the children in days out, supporting creating memories, and providing a stable foundation for the future.
Their message to anyone considering fostering? “Please just give it a go,” John urges. “Do your research, go to a recruitment event, talk to other carers. It really will change your life and more importantly, it can change a young person’s life for the better.”
Cllr Paul Hezelgrave, Lead Council’s Cabinet Member for Foster for East Midlands Councils said:
John and Carol’s inspiring journey shows just how powerful fostering can be, not only transforming the lives of vulnerable young people, but enriching the carers themselves. Their commitment and love create safe, supportive homes where children can heal, grow, and build brighter futures. I encourage anyone considering fostering to take that first step. With the right support from Foster for East Midlands Councils, you too can make a lasting difference in a child’s life and your community.
Fostering with Foster for East Midlands Councils offers a unique opportunity to change the lives of vulnerable children while enriching your own. As the fostering service for local authorities across Derby, Derbyshire, Nottingham, and Nottinghamshire, Foster for East Midlands Councils focuses on the profound impact a stable and nurturing home environment can have on children who have faced adversity.
Becoming a foster carer means offering stability, guidance, and care that helps children feel safe, supported, and able to thrive. With Foster for East Midlands Councils, you’ll receive comprehensive training and continuous support every step of the way, you’re never alone.
Fostering means more than a roof over their head, it means hope, security, and new beginnings.
To take the next step in your fostering journey, contact us directly or join one of our monthly Information Events.
For more information, visit fosterforeastmidlands.org.uk, call 03033 132 950, or email hello@fosterforeastmidlands.org.uk.
Join us in making a lasting difference.
Watch John and Carol talk about their fostering journey