A TAMESIDE teenager has described how he feels like “a success story of the care system” after being placed into foster care at the age of six.
Rob Grayson, who is now 19 years old, said his first foster carers were “the most impactful and welcoming” by being “incredible role models” and showing him “what a good home should look like”.
With the need for people to step up to become foster parents greater than ever, Rob is sharing his experience with others to highlight how vital and valuable the care system is – especially to foster carers who can provide a loving and stable home environment for local children in care.
But the teenager from Ashton-under-Lyne also wants to reassure other children and young people in care that “no matter how hopeless your situation feels, there will always be light at the end of the tunnel”.
He stated: “Even though my journey in care felt like a physical rollercoaster, my overall experience was positive as I was supported throughout, I was informed about my processes, and I was able to remain in my local area and stay at my schools.
“This allowed me to maintain and build on my friendships and see familiar faces when my living environment was changing.
“It’s good that we have a system that protects and cares for young people where families for whatever reason can’t provide this support.
“I’ve learnt how people from different and diverse backgrounds can still turn out well, and we can break the stigma around care kids, as this doesn’t define who we are or restrict us from making any choices we want to make.”
Rob has now been living independently for two years but still accesses support through the Care Leavers Tea Time Club and the Care Leavers Forum, whilst volunteering to offer support to other young children in care.
Tameside Council is looking for people from all backgrounds to become foster carers for local children, with the local authority providing support, full training and an allowance.
Councillor Teresa Smith, Executive Member for Children’s Services, said: “I’d like to personally thank Rob for sharing his story of living in care, as this really highlights the impact that foster carers and other forms of care can have for a young person and how this sets them on the right path in life.
“If you are interested in fostering in Tameside, I urge you to please get in touch and join us in truly making a difference to local children and young people.”
More information about fostering can be gained by calling 0300 303, 0321, emailing enquire@fosterforgm.com or visiting www.tameside.gov.uk/fostering