Mark and Joan fostered the siblings for nearly a year until it was decided that they should be placed for adoption. Mark and Joan’s primary goal was to help the children trust and allow adults to care for them. Tilly, initially very possessive of Thomas, gradually learned to enjoy other activities and find some playtime for herself.
Mark and Joan also played a crucial role in preparing Tilly and Thomas for their new adoptive family. They talked to the children about their future family and supported the introduction process.
Mark and Joan have a deep passion for caring for children, having raised three of their own in a home filled with love and warmth.
Mark shared, “We had our babies young in our early twenties. I love looking after children and I wasn’t ready to stop. Even though we are still quite young, we realized we had a lot to offer.” This youthful energy and dedication make them exceptional foster carers, always ready to provide the nurturing environment children need.
Joan added, “I have run playgroups at our local church and enjoyed planning and organizing activities for children.” Her experience in running these groups helped her develop the skills to manage a lively household and create a structured yet fun environment for the foster children.
Their home was already geared up for children, making the transition for any new arrivals smooth and welcoming. Joan’s love for organizing and planning meant that every child who came into their care had a well-thought-out routine and engaging activities to help them settle in and feel at home.
Currently, without a spare room, Mark and Joan focus on caring for babies, providing crucial support during the early months to help them settle into their new families. “We’ve had some really good experiences where we know the care we offered in those crucial first few months has really helped a child to settle into their new families,” Mark noted with satisfaction.
One memorable experience was with Diane and Jack, the adoptive parents of Tilly and Thomas. “When Diane and Jack came to our house, they were so nervous. We knew it was our job to make them as comfortable as possible,” Joan recalled. Their empathetic approach helped the adoptive parents feel at ease, facilitating a smoother transition for the children.
“Seeing children move on and knowing we played a part in turning their lives around is the best thanks we can get,” Joan expressed with pride.
A New Beginning
Tilly and Thomas now have a forever home with their adoptive parents, thanks to the incredible fostering journey with Mark and Joan.
