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Barnardos carers, Tony and Michelle, have been working with the organisation for 17 years. “We were both aware of Barnardos from a young age when we lived in England,” Michelle said. “When Tony and I got married there was a Barnardos home nearby where we lived and we would help out and join in the group activities and assist.
“When we came to Australia we saw a Barnardos ad in the paper. We looked at each other and thought it would be great to continue working with Barnardos.” The couple has cared for five children on a full-time basis with most staying six years. They have had about half a dozen children on respite and have also provided emergency short term care. “All the children return to visit and keep in contact with us,” Michelle said.
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“It’s a challenge at first but once the children have lived under your roof, you build a relationship with them, you feel empathy and you want to help them fit into society and have the same life as other children – such as making friends and helping them create a bit of a future for themselves,” Michelle said. “We try to instill a sense of self-worth and help them with their education.”
They said a good carer would be realistic and not place too much expectation on children. “All children are different and you have to work out how to make them feel safe and comfortable,” Michelle said. The couple recommended the fulfilling role to others considering foster care.
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