Local Wollongong couple Jen and Graham have been Barnardos foster carers for over 15 years and have looked after eight children in that time.

“We keep in touch with them all,” Jen said. “It’s wonderful to see them develop into young adults, get jobs, travel overseas and achieve things in life.”

Graham adds, “We always get a huge sense of satisfaction when they are doing well and we know we played some part in that.”

The couple had always wanted to help children less fortunate, so once their own children left home, they approached Barnardos about becoming foster carers.

“We’d heard about kids who needed a safe place to grow up in and we just had to help,” they said. “We always felt that we’d been fortunate, plus we had the skills and experience from raising our own children.

“It was an easy decision - we knew we wanted to give something back.”

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When asked what the major qualities are needed to be a foster carer, Jen replies immediately, “Without doubt, patience and love.”

Graham agrees. “All children make mistakes but you just have to be there for them to support and guide them as they grow and learn about life.”

The couple also have ready advice for those thinking about fostering.

“Just do it, pick up the phone and find out more about it,” they said.

“There are so many kids in the local area who need help and you’ll get so much out of it.”

Their only issue now is fitting everyone around the dinner table when the children come to visit.

“We all just had a big Father’s Day lunch together, with our children, grandchildren, and some of the young people we fostered over the years.

“It was great to have them get together and celebrate with us as part of the family.”

Long-term foster carers are urgently needed in the Illawarra for children aged five to 10 years.

Call Barnardos today on 1800 663 441 and find out more information on how you can become a foster carer.

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