Foster family gave me 'a second chance at life'

Adam Lucas from Stonehouse, near Stroud, entered care at the age of four and battled with anger issues and PTSD before moving in with David and Sabrina Ridout six years ago.

My foster parents make me feel like I finally belong. They've looked after me better than anyone else and have helped me find my own path," he said.

The teenager, who is hoping to join the Army, said his foster parents had given him "a second chance at life".

Ridout said the pair were proud of Lucas and he, along with their three biological sons, would remain a family forever.

We are hugely proud of him...We didn't have him growing up in the early years, but he's one of us, and that will always be the case even when he's moved on, married and got his own family – he will be one of us."

Gloucestershire, like many councils across England, has experienced a reduction in the number of registered foster families over the past five years.

Ben Evans, cabinet member for children's safeguarding and care, said the council is looking for new foster families and that be believed fostering ultimately came down to one thing – love.

We're looking for people who have got that capacity to really care and love a child in their own home.

I've worked in this sector for 25 years, and a lot of people work really hard, but I don't think people can give any more than inviting a child in to their own home.

If you're curious about fostering, we'd love to have a chat with you:
Speak to the team on 01242 532654 or text FOSTER to 60060

Read the full article here: Foster family gave me 'a second chance at life' says Stonehouse care leaver - BBC News