Fostering is a journey filled with both rewarding and challenging moments. At Origins Foster Care, we understand that support is crucial for carers to navigate this path successfully. In this edition of our Journey of Hearts series, foster carer Genevieve discusses the indispensable role of Link Workers and the strength found in connecting with fellow carers.
When Genevieve began her fostering journey, she quickly realised the importance of having a dedicated support system. She shares that "you have your team leader and your social worker and your link worker. Your Link Worker would be the person who’d listen to you. You actually have that one person who’s on your side.”
Link Workers at Origins Foster Care are more than just points of contact – they are advocates and confidants for their foster carers. Genevieve puts it beautifully:
She’s my voice… it’s that lovely feeling to know that I have somebody there at the other end of the line, 24/7.
This continuous support ensures that carers are never alone, especially when things get tough.
Alongside professional guidance, the connection between foster carers themselves is something special – and something we view as essential for carers with Origins. As Genevieve puts it, “You have to be connected with other carers. It’s a must – because nobody’s going to see what you’re doing but another carer.”
There’s something uniquely reassuring about chatting with someone who’s been where you are – especially when it’s 2am and you’re pacing the floor with a newborn. Sometimes, all it takes is picking up the phone and hearing, “Oh yeah, that happened to me last week!” to feel seen.
These moments of shared experience help build a sense of community – one that builds confidence, compassion, and a sense of not being in it alone. It’s that mutual understanding that keeps many carers going, especially through the tougher moments.
At Origins, we prioritise a holistic support approach for our foster carers, including:
Our holistic approach ensures that carers like Genevieve have the resources and support they need to provide the best care possible.
If there’s one thing Genevieve’s story highlights, it’s that fostering isn’t a solo journey. Having someone to lean on – be it your dedicated Origins Link Worker or fellow carers who truly understand – can make all the difference. It’s about building a community where support is always within reach.
This is something we deeply understand at Origins Foster Care. Becoming a foster carer is a journey best undertaken with a strong support system. Because we know first-hand how support shapes not only a carer’s experience – but the outcomes for the children they care for too. Through dedicated Link Workers available 24/7 and our incredible community of fellow foster carers, we make sure that no carer walks this path alone.
Considering fostering? At Origins Foster Care, we’re here to walk alongside you every step of the way. Find out more about our approach – and what makes fostering with Origins truly different.
Reach out for any questions and enquiries. A member of our fostering team will get back to you as soon as possible.
