When Wendy and David Hirst started fostering ten years ago, they couldn’t have imagined how many lives they would touch – including their own. Their commitment to Lighthouse Fostering over the past decade is a testament to the profound impact dedicated foster carers can have on vulnerable children and teenagers.
At our recent celebration of ten years with Lighthouse Fostering, Wendy and David reflected on their journey: "Ten years, three teenage boys, one teenage girl, two challenging brothers, and a steady flow of short-term placements. It's been a rollercoaster, but we wouldn't change it for the world."
A Journey of Courage and Commitment
In ten years, Wendy and David have provided safe, loving homes for many children, including some of the most challenging placements. Their willingness to foster teenagers – often considered difficult – shows their courage and dedication.
Teenagers in care often carry deep emotional wounds and may struggle with trust or feel they’re too old for family life. Yet Wendy and David understood how vital stability is during these years.
"The teenage years are when kids need clear boundaries and unconditional support," says David. "Many have experienced multiple placement breakdowns or lived in residential care. Coming into a family can be both healing and overwhelming for them."
Their decision to foster siblings, including two challenging brothers, is another example of their commitment. Keeping siblings together is essential for emotional wellbeing but requires managing complex dynamics and individual needs.
The Ripple Effect of Care
Wendy and David’s impact goes beyond the time children spend in their care. A heartfelt message from a young man after moving on captures this: "It’s moments like these that remind us why we do this," David shares. "Knowing we’ve made a difference keeps us going."
Positive fostering experiences create ripple effects. Children who find stability and love in care are more likely to form healthy relationships, succeed in school, and break cycles of disadvantage. Wendy and David’s fostering journey has shaped multiple futures.
Understanding the 'Rollercoaster' of Fostering
Wendy describes fostering as a "rollercoaster" – with incredible highs and tough challenges. One day might bring the joy of seeing a withdrawn teenager smile for the first time, while the next might involve managing a crisis or supporting a child through trauma.
"There were nights we questioned if we were making a difference," Wendy admits. "Progress can be invisible for months. But over time, we’ve learned that healing happens at each child’s pace, often in ways we don’t immediately see."
Their resilience and hope during difficult periods reflect the professional approach Lighthouse Fostering values. They focus on providing a nurturing environment where children can heal, not on "fixing" them.
The Value of Short-Term Fostering
In addition to long-term placements, Wendy and David have provided short-term care, including respite and emergency placements. These require unique skills, as carers must establish trust quickly and provide immediate support to children in crisis.
"Some of the most rewarding placements have been short-term," says David. "Even if it’s just a weekend, knowing we’ve given a child safety and care during a difficult moment is incredibly meaningful."
Their flexibility and responsiveness to community needs highlight their vital role in the fostering network.
Growth Through Learning
Over the years, Wendy and David have embraced continuous learning to improve their care. "Training through Lighthouse Fostering has been invaluable," says Wendy. "Trauma-informed care has transformed how we respond to challenges. What once looked like defiance, we now see as a child communicating distress."
Their openness to learning has improved outcomes for the children they care for and made them mentors to new carers. Sharing their knowledge enhances the entire fostering community.
The Personal Rewards of Fostering
Fostering has also enriched Wendy and David’s lives. "Watching young people overcome tough circumstances has inspired us," says Wendy. "Their resilience puts everyday challenges into perspective."
Fostering has strengthened their relationships with each other and their extended family, with many foster children becoming lasting parts of their lives.
Inspiring Future Foster Carers
Wendy and David’s story is a powerful example for others considering fostering. "We’d encourage anyone to give fostering a try," says David. "It’s not easy, but nothing worthwhile is. The support from Lighthouse Fostering has been exceptional – we’ve never felt alone."
Their journey shows that fostering skills develop over time. With support, training, and commitment, anyone can become a great foster carer.
The Broader Impact on Community
Wendy and David’s decade of fostering has created benefits that extend far beyond their household. Stability and love in foster care lead to better outcomes for children, reducing pressure on social services and helping break cycles of trauma.
Their willingness to foster siblings and accept emergency placements has prevented separations and provided crucial stability during crises, shaping countless lives for the better.
Looking Ahead
As they reflect on their ten years, Wendy and David are already looking forward to continuing. "We’re not planning to stop anytime soon," Wendy smiles. "There are always children who need care, and we still have so much to offer."
Their ongoing commitment brings hope to future placements and ensures more young lives will be transformed.
A Legacy of Love
Wendy and David’s decade with Lighthouse Fostering is a powerful reminder of the impact foster carers can have. Their resilience, compassion, and belief in every child’s potential have created lasting change in so many lives.
Their story proves fostering heroes aren’t born – they’re made through dedication and daily choices to love and support children who need it most. As we celebrate their journey, we’re reminded that every foster carer can create similar transformations and help shape brighter futures for vulnerable children.