What do Harry Potter, Paddington Bear and Marilyn Monroe have in common?

They all spent time living with foster families.

Unlike the Dursleys (we hope!), our house is full of love, laughter and lots of fun.

Like many people, we reassessed our priorities after the pandemic. We moved to Waverley from central Sheffield for more space and greenery – and decided we wanted to share it with children who needed a safe place to call home.

Some evenings our street is full of bikes, footballs flying and kids laughing as they race each other home. That’s what I love most about Waverley – it’s a proper family neighbourhood. The bike park is buzzing, and with Highwall Park on the way, it’s only getting better. It feels like the sort of place every child deserves to grow up in – safe, busy and full of life.

Opening our home to children who need love and stability has been the most rewarding thing we’ve ever done. The children who live with us keep us laughing every day, whether they’re attempting wheelies or doting over local dogs. It isn’t always easy, but it’s always worth it.

The good news is, you don’t have to foster full-time to make a difference. Rotherham Council’s new Home from Home scheme means you can offer a safe, welcoming second home for children on a flexible basis – weekends, school holidays, or even just one day a week. You don’t need a permanent spare bedroom, just a safe space for a child to sleep when they stay.

The council provides full training, 24/7 support and financial allowances – all you need is time, care and commitment. If you’ve ever thought about fostering, this could be the perfect way to start. There are hundreds of children across Rotherham who need the love and support of communities just like ours. If you’d like an informal chat about my experiences as a foster carer, reach out – I’m always happy to meet for coffee (or a Canary cocktail!) 

Kat Harbourne: bethegood.co.uk

For more information about fostering visit: www.fosteringrotherham.com