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Supportive Lodgings Case Study 1 - The Carer's story

The Carer - Justine (40)
"I first started fostering ten years ago when a boy I knew lost both his mother and father in a car accident. He was being passed from pillar to post in the care system and I decided I had to offer him a fresh start. He moved in with me when he was 14 and stayed for four years. When I moved I advertised a room in my house. It was obvious that the young lad who moved in needed far more help than just a roof over his head. During one visit from a social worker, she mentioned the Supportive Lodgings scheme. I thought it sounded brilliant and just went for it.

That was in 2003 and since then I've taken in eight different young people, most of them on a long term basis. It's not as heavy going as fostering - the kids just become part of your family. They come and talk to me about all sorts of things, from relationships to problems with addictions. If I had a problem when I was a kid I would go to my mum, but these kids haven't got that option. I like having them around. I can't have any children myself so I think it keeps me young. I still get visits from the kids who've lived with me, one girl comes once a week. It's so nice to see her with her own place and family around her. I'm godparent to her two children. Seeing how happy she is gives you quite a kick. Although it was her own doing, I hope I helped her on her way.

Norman is my support worker and he's very good. He will often pop around for a chat or I can call him if I've got a problem. He knows who I can and can't take. I can't see my work with Step by Step coming to an end. I just had a four-week break and although it was nice I felt like a part of me was empty.

I can't wait to welcome the next young person into my home.

©2008 Step by Step Partnership Ltd   :   Reg. Charity No. 900308    :   Company No. 2431825