Wolverhampton foster parent describes it as ‘life-changing’

Mel Blake and her husband, who have three children of their own, have also been fostering for seven years.

“We foster very much as a family,” she said. “We still have one biological child at home who’s very much part of decisions.”

She took the plunge after visiting a recruitment event and speaking to those already doing it about “what really happens”.

Providing a home for two young people over the years has “been a real learning experience for us all,” she said.

“Our previous young person was very loud and my son was very quiet and they kind of balanced each other.

“He helped my own son grow confident. My biological son then gave him the understanding that in certain situations we need to remember other people are here.”

Although she acknowledges some days are difficult, she said her training had helped her navigate young mental health issues, and become more compassionate about certain behaviours.