Phil is a foster carer in the East Midlands, and his story shows just how life-changing fostering can be for children. For Phil, it’s never been about a job it’s about making a real difference in children’s lives.

“I’ve always thought of myself as a parent, not someone just doing a job,” Phil says. “When my own kids grew up and left home, I wanted something meaningful to do. Fostering was the perfect way to do that.”

One of Phil’s most memorable experiences was caring for a young boy with cerebral palsy. His older brother had more severe needs, so the younger boy often didn’t get the attention he needed. Phil focused on helping him develop independence in simple ways, like tying his own shoelaces and learning to scramble an egg.

“I’ll never forget the smile on his face when he did those things for the first time,” Phil recalls. “It might seem small, but to him, it was a huge step. Those moments make everything worthwhile.”

Phil believes that fostering is more than helping individual children, it’s about helping society too. “There are lots of problems in the world, but by fostering, you can be part of the solution,” he explains. “Every child you care for is a chance to show them stability, happiness, and a different way of life. You’re helping them turn their potential into real achievements.”

Councillor Paul Hezelgrave, Lead Council’s Cabinet Member for Fostering for East Midlands Councils, added:

As Phil says, fostering isn’t just about helping one child—it’s about making a difference to society. Foster carers give children stability, confidence, and hope, and in doing so, they help build a stronger, brighter future for our communities across the East Midlands. Phil’s story is a perfect example of the amazing impact fostering can have.

Phil’s story is a reminder of the kindness, patience, and love foster carers bring every day. They help children feel safe, build confidence, and give them hope for the future.

Foster for East Midlands Councils’ recruitment hub gives people like Phil the chance to make a real and lasting difference in a child’s life. Covering Derby, Derbyshire, Nottingham, and Nottinghamshire, the hub supports potential foster carers from the moment they first enquire about fostering. The team then guides them through the approval process, offering full training, clear guidance, and ongoing support every step of the way. Because fostering isn’t just about providing a room, it’s about giving a child a future filled with safety, opportunity, and hope.

If you’re ready to start your fostering journey, visit fosterforeastmidlands.org.uk, call 03033 132 950, or email hello@fosterforeastmidlands.org.uk.

You can also join one of their monthly Information Events to learn more about meet our foster carers in your community.

Listen to Phil tell his story in the video below.