Dean’s fostering journey began at Christmas 2024, when he realised he wanted to do something that could truly make a difference. As a single dad, Dean had always hoped to create a safe, caring home and be someone children could trust and feel comfortable with.

In January 2025, Dean contacted the Foster for East Midlands Councils Team and took his first step into fostering. He met lots of new people and was supported by a social worker who guided him through the process and helped him understand what fostering really means. Over time, Dean built a strong level of trust with his social worker, which gave him confidence throughout the approval journey.

The journey was challenging at times, but Dean found it rewarding and worthwhile. Along the way, he attended training sessions and learned how to support children who may have had difficult experiences. He felt welcomed and encouraged by everyone he met.

Honestly, everyone I’ve met has been so lovely, all of the social workers, everyone, Dean said.

As the process continued, Dean felt increasingly confident that fostering was right for him. Reflecting on this time, he shared,

Everything just seemed to come together where I thought, yeah, I’d be good at this.

In August 2025, Dean attended panel. It was an emotional day, and Dean felt proud when he was approved as a foster carer. He understands why the careful checks and questions are needed.

They do look into your background, but there’s a reason for it. It helps match the right carers with the right children, he explained.

Not long after, Dean welcomed his first foster child, an 18-month-old, for a 10-day stay. It was busy and tiring, but incredibly special. Dean describes it as one of the most memorable moments of his life from the first smile to holding the child safely and helping them settle.

I don’t think anybody can really prepare you. When the child arrives, you adapt to what they need, he said.

Since then, Dean has cared for four short-term placements, supporting children of different ages, from babies to teenagers. Sometimes it can be hard to say goodbye, but Dean understands that helping a child move on safely means he has done his job well. He is also working closely with his social worker toward a long-term placement, preparing to provide consistent care for a child who needs stability and support.

Dean enjoys supporting others who are thinking about fostering. He has helped at information events, sharing his own experience of the approval process and encouraging people to find out more.

At first, Dean’s family were surprised by his decision, but they are now one of his biggest supports. He also has friends who foster, helping him feel part of a strong and caring community.

Looking ahead, Dean is excited to join a Mockingbird constellation, which will be the third within the Nottinghamshire area. This brings together foster families who support one another like an extended family, while giving children opportunities to make friends and feel connected. Dean is keen to be an active member of this constellation and support both children and fellow foster carers.

Councillor Paul Hezelgrave, Lead Cabinet Member for Foster for East Midlands Councils, said:

Dean’s story shows the incredible impact foster carers have on children’s lives. His dedication, warmth, and care are an inspiration, and we hope more people will be encouraged to follow his example.

For anyone who has ever quietly wondered whether fostering might be right for them, Dean’s story offers an honest insight into what the journey can look like and how taking that first step can lead to something truly life-changing, both for children and for carers themselves.

Why not take your first step and find out more about fostering by visiting the Foster for East Midlands Councils website.