Opening up opportunities for young people

For Lesley Caulkin and Caitlyn Grey, their time in foster care not only helped shape the people they are today, it also inspired them to help others.

Lesley first went into foster care at the age of five and lived with two families. Now in her 20's, she believes she has benefitted from positive role models in both families. She also credits her foster carers with helping her to develop a good work ethic. "Fostering has given me so many opportunities," she said. And it is these opportunities that inspired Lesley to study a social work degree at Leeds Beckett University, she is determined to help as many people as possible. For those considering a future in fostering, Lesley's words of advice are to "give it a go". "I would definitely encourage people to consider opening their home. It can give people new opportunities and help them to feel safe," she added. "Even if it's short term it can still make a big difference to a young person."

Caitlyn became a care leaver in October last year and is also studying social work at university. She has spent time in a number of foster families. "I have close connections with my previous foster carers who I think very fondly of. They have all helped to shape me to be the person I am today. I am glad I can make them proud of the person I have become." As well as hoping to become a children's social worker after completing her degree, Caitlyn has also supported our foster care recruitment events. "I love being a part of the foster care training because I know what it was like growing up with a foster family, so I can help people understand how to talk to us," explains Caitlyn. "Foster care makes such a difference to many children's lives."

Could you foster with us? 

We have many children in County Durham who need a loving foster family. 

If you foster with us, you can help make a difference to the lives of young people and help them grow into amazing young adults like Lesley and Caitlyn. 

We offer a great support package which includes financial assistance alongside full training and advice to help to guide you through your fostering journey.

To speak to a member of the fostering team, call 03000 269 400. You can also find more information and dates of future information events at Fostering.