Paula has been fostering teenagers for around six years, providing respite, short-term, long-term and now Staying Put placements.
She wanted to share her experiences in the hope that they will inspire you to consider fostering teenagers.
Paula said: "I must say there is no such thing as easy parenting, so please put aside any preconceived view that teenagers are harder to parent than a younger child as they are not harder, just different. Teenagers still need guidance and support as they make the tough transition from child to adult, and they desperately need stability during this time. We all remember our own transition to the adult world and how we looked to our parents for advice and support during those years. Ok, we did not always ‘listen’ to them as we tested ourselves, but we needed them.
"Our teenagers are just the same as we were: they make the same mistakes and they push the same boundaries we did at their age. They also need the same reassurance and the same sense of being cared for that we did.
"My belief is that it’s vital for teenagers to have stability during these important years as this helps to shape the adult they become and the futures they have. Through our Staying Put scheme we offer teenagers the opportunity to remain with their carers until they are 21 years old meaning they can complete apprenticeships or further education with a supportive foster family standing with them, and this can be life changing for them. They can achieve the same outcomes as their peers.
"I am supporting a 19 year old, who has now successfully completed an apprenticeship, got his first permanent job, passed the dreaded driving test and even bought his first car. My heart swelled when I saw the pride on his face as the car dealer handed him the key saying ‘it’s all yours’. I will be starting a similar path now with a 17 year old.
"Yes, I have found it to be testing at times, but worth every minute.
My belief is that it’s vital for teenagers to have stability during these important years as this helps to shape the adult they become and the futures they have.
"What matters most is the relationship you build with the young person, as this enables you to become their ‘rock’. Through our Caring2Learn groups and Foster Care Champions we can access a vast wealth of experience and support from other foster carers alongside the training and support the local authority offers. All of this means you are not alone when challenges do arise as someone is always there with helpful advice and top tips, or just to be a listening ear when needed.
"So my plea is that, if you do get a call asking if you’d consider fostering a teenager, you will take some time and think it over. They need you just as much as any other child."
In Lincolnshire more foster carers are needed to look after some of the county's most vulnerable young people.
Each application to foster is considered on an individual basis and you can be a foster carer regardless of your marital status, sexuality, employment status, ethnicity or religion. However, you do need to have a spare bedroom for a young person to use.
In terms of practicalities, there is a fostering allowance, as well as good support and training for those who provide a home for a young person in need.
If you feel that you could offer a home to a young person , apply to foster today at www.lincolnshire.gov.uk/fostering or call our friendly team on 01522 554114.