Becoming a Supported Lodgings carer

"When my two children grew up and moved out, it went from a vibrant, happy home to a quiet, empty house with no soul. I started to reflect on my purpose in life too, as I felt my identity had left with my children.

My faith has filled me with love, so I desperately felt like I had more love to share. As a Christian, I am always asking myself “what more can you do to help others? That is when I called Essex County Council about fostering."

Deborah found Supported Lodgings could fit in with her busy career too

Supported Lodgings helps young people move towards independence. While young people need emotional support and guidance, their needs are different from small children.

"I was set on fostering young children, but due to my busy career, I realised it wouldn't be a suitable option. I can't give small children the attention they deserve, but I didn't want to give up my career either in the NHS.

I almost gave up on the idea of fostering, until the option of Supported Lodgings was explained to me. A lightbulb went off in my head as it seemed like the perfect solution.

I could continue to work full-time but still have a house full of love. I would be making a difference in the NHS and in the lives of young people who just needed a helping hand."

Every young person has a different background

Young people may need a place to live for reasons including:

• they are leaving foster care but aren't ready to live on their own 
• their family situation has changed 
• they're learning to manage their behaviour 

Deborah sees the difference stability makes for young people, and finds it uplifting.

"Young people may be coming from a family who didn't have time for them. All they want is a safe, caring home environment. You see them arrive at your home scared and timid. But after investing some time in nurturing them, you see a confident young person start to develop. That's just so rewarding."

Supported Lodgings offers the young people, and their carer, independence

"I would say that Supported Lodgings is an excellent alternative to full-time foster care but just as rewarding. As the young people you take in are self-sufficient, I’m able to work full-time, go on holiday and have a social life. By looking after myself, I’m in turn nurturing the life of those young people I foster and preparing them for independence too."

Finally, what would Deborah say to anyone becoming a Supported Lodgings carer?

"If anyone is considering Supported Lodgings as an option, but concerned you won't have time to balance work too, please re-consider. During COVID, I was working extra shifts while having two young people at home too. I keep in contact with everyone who stays with me. I hear about their successes, and it's life changing."