A day in the life of a foster carer Kay, who together with partner, Garry, fosters siblings. With their teenage grandson and dog Gizmo also at home, there's truly never a dull day in their home and the couple absolutely wouldn't want it any other way.
Getting started - a polished routine
"Every day's a little bit different," Kay says, "but we've definitely got a routine that works for us."
Her mornings start early - usually around 7am - and things get busy straight away.
"The morning involves getting the children out of bed, ensuring they have breakfast, brushing their teeth, and getting dressed."
With Lilly* (10), Charlie* (8), and her 14-year-old grandson all in the house, there's always something going on. It's a bit of a juggle, but Kay makes sure everyone has what they need, homework done, school bags packed, snacks sorted, water bottles filled for the day ahead.
Before long, it's time to head out the door. With three young people to support, organisation is key, but having both younger children at the same school makes things a little easier.
Once the school run is done, Kay finally gets a moment to catch her breath, but not for long.
"There's always something to do," she laughs. Washing, making beds, sorting uniforms...as well as meetings with supervising social workers, foster carer training and daily record sheets and memory boxes. Each day will involve fostering meetings, training or admin in some shape or form.
Catching up with other carers
One afternoon a week looks a bit different though - and this is something Kay really values.
Today she heads out to meet other foster carers from her Mockingbird hub at a little coffee shop in Thornaby. There's usually around ten of them, all catching up over coffee and cake.
"It's a chance to just sit together, talk things through and support each other," she explains. "We share stories, plan things together—it really does feel like one big family."
Afternoons on the move
Back at home, the afternoons and early evenings revolve around the children again. Charlie heads off to badminton one day a week, while Lilly Charlie has been putting a lot of effort into her SATs.
Twice a week there are also family time sessions to keep the children connected with their siblings and birth parents, which Kay supports by doing the transport. It's something she's really embraced.
And those car journeys? They're anything but quiet—think music, singing, and lots of laughter.
Comfy evenings in
Evenings at home are all about winding down together. The children come in, get comfy, and grab a snack - something Kay encourages them to prepare themselves after school, usually a sandwich and a yoghurt to keep them going until teatime.
Dinner is relaxed and familiar - especially during SATs week when pancakes have been a firm favourite on the menu!
Then comes bath time, which has become one of those small but meaningful moments in the day. A nice bubble bath with a fluffy towel and into pyjamas.
"It's when they chat the most," Kay says. "You hear all about their day."
Once the children are in bed, Kay finally gets some time for herself - but even then, her focus is still on thinking about others.
She picks up her crochet and gets to work. Recently, she's been making a comforter for a new baby who's joined their Mockingbird hub.
"I just think it's a nice thing to do," she says. "Something personal to welcome them to our Mockingbird family."
The best thing about my day
Right now, there's a big birthday coming up. Lilly is turning 11, and she knew exactly what she wanted, to celebrate at Level X in Middlesbrough.
"The activities will include roller skating and bowling."
"It's all been her choice," Kay says. "She's really excited and we've been helping to plan it." Her school friends, siblings and cousins have been invited, and it's shaping up to be a really special day".
Those small special moments
One of the real highlights Kay reflects on is a recent beach day for a classmate's birthday party.
They spent the day based in a beach hut in Seaton Carew and the children, played games on the beach, and even braved the sea for a paddle and a splash.
"They absolutely loved it," Kay says. Both Lilly and Charlie were especially pleased with their new swimwear, which made the day feel even more exciting and special for them.
"It's those moments," Kay reflects, "just seeing them enjoy themselves and try new things."
Alongside the bigger moments, it's often days like this that stand out the most, simple, happy memories being made.
Looking back, Kay can see just how far the children have come.
"They have become part of the family."
And that's what it's all about - routine, care, support, and creating a home where children can grow, feel safe, and just be themselves.
You can explore the benefits of fostering and types of fostering on our website to get a better feel for how fostering might work for you. To register your interest with no commitment go to our enquiry form or call 0800 917 7771. Our hub advisers are ready and waiting to answer any questions you might have, big or small and can also arrange for you to speak to a foster carer buddy.
