A Moray mum has called on others to “open their hearts and their homes” to disadvantaged children, who are looking for foster care.
Penny Forsyth has looked after six children over the past seven years – for periods ranging from three months to three years – while they await adoption.
And she has regularly welcomed five other youngsters from the care system into her home for “respite breaks” lasting a fortnight.
The mum-of-three, who lives outside Hopeman, yesterday issued an appeal for other people in a position to help to register as foster carers.
The 47-year-old said it was only through a chance meeting on holiday in France that her eyes were opened to the possibility of taking on the life-changing role.
She said: “When my youngest boy, George, started at primary school, I had more time on my hands and was looking for something to fill it with.
“I had always wanted to work with children in a care context, and just happened to get chatting to a foster carer in a lift while on holiday.
“Soon after that, I discussed fostering with my family, and registered with the council.”
She subsequently spent two years undergoing checks to make sure she was a suitable foster parent.
Mrs Forsyth added she was surprised to discover how specific she could be in suggesting the age of child she wanted to look after.
She said: “I wanted to take in pre-school children and babies, so that there wasn’t any conflict with my own older children.
“And when we had the little ones with us, they welcomed them so warmly.
“At first, your concern is to change the lives of children who come into care – but then you realise how much they have given you as well.
“It is shocking how emotionally and physically damaged the children can be when they first arrive.
“The main thing is earning their trust, and letting them know it is OK for them to be children.”
Mrs Forsyth explained that all of the youngsters she fostered are thriving, and she still maintains contact with them.
Moray Council is running a foster care recruitment campaign, and social workers have stressed that it is open to people from almost every walk of life.
People can call 01343 563568 or e-mail fostering&adoption@moray.gov.uk for more information.
