Could You Help a Teenager in Portsmouth Take Their Next Step?

A Growing Need in Our City

Over two thirds of children in our care are aged ten and over. This presents a pressing need to find additional foster carers for older children and teens who find themselves in need in our city.

Fostering Teens: A Chance to Inspire

Fostering teenagers is a unique opportunity to inspire the next generation. It is never too late to make a difference to young lives as foster carer Zhoura shares: “I love working with young people – they have great personalities. I love to support them and put them on the right track in life, watching them grow as people and seeing them thriving in society as adults.”

Challenges and Rewards

All children have their challenges regardless of their age and teenagers are no exception. However, the benefits of fostering teens far outweigh any difficulties. Zhoura, who has fostered for 18 years with Foster Portsmouth, continued: “There are some challenges as a foster carer because some of the young people I take do have complex needs, but the rewards are wonderful.”

Josh’s Story: Growing in Confidence

14-year-old Josh* – who loves the outdoors; going to the park, walking in the woods, climbing trees and looking for insects – was looking for a long-term foster family. He gained in confidence and went on to do very well in school. Josh’s social worker described him as having a ‘great personality’ and said he can be very reflective.

Building Trust Takes Time

Your home may be the first safe and nurturing environment our teens have known. They may have built up defences to protect themselves which will require patience to break down so they can begin to thrive. This will require taking time to listen and get to know them, as well as the introduction of structure such as routine and boundaries.

Experience Helps; But Support Is Always There

Experience of working with or parenting teenagers or young people is an advantage. However, you’ll receive excellent training, 24/7 support, and you’d be part of an experienced and highly qualified team around the child.

Could You Be the Difference?

Fostering teenagers and supporting them as they navigate their way towards adult life is highly rewarding.

Zhoura ended, “I would say that it’s so rewarding to be a foster carer and to give these young people an opportunity to strive forward in life and to have positive outcomes. If I can do it, any of you can do it too.”

“I can’t express what kind of job this is. It is the best thing in the world…  and so rewarding.”

Do You Have the Time and Understanding?

Do you have the time and understanding to help these young people flourish and meet their potential?