Jacqui and Malcolm, a foster couple from Gateshead, have retired after dedicating 30 years to caring for local children. Over three decades, they have looked after 45 children, ranging from babies to those aged 18 and over, providing short-term and long-term care as well as respite for other carers.
The couple also supported mothers and babies and helped prepare numerous children for adoption. They decided to explore fostering after their own children had grown up and moved out, feeling they still had a lot more caring to give. At the time, Jacqui worked at Gateshead Central Library, where foster carers regularly held coffee mornings, giving her the chance to chat with them and the fostering team.
A lifetime of dedication
When they first started fostering, Malcolm continued to work full time while Jacqui worked at the library as catering manager. She later gave up her role to dedicate all her time to fostering. The couple received support from their family, including Jacqui's mother, whom the children all thought of as grandma, and from their son and daughter. Their grandchildren also welcomed foster children into the family and built good friendships.
Jacqui said: “Every child has a different story and when they first come into foster care, they are often apprehensive and find it difficult to trust adults. The most rewarding thing is seeing the children gain our trust, overcome challenges, build confidence and bloom - each in their own way. It is great when the children grow up but still keep in touch to let you know how they are doing.”
Challenges and rewards
Malcolm added: “We have dealt with a lot of challenging moments over the years but used our own parenting skills and new skills we developed along the way to help deal with any challenges. It is always important to listen and show empathy but also have lots of humour in the household.”
Although officially retired, the couple continue to support 19-year-old Jack in a staying put fostering arrangement. Jack has lived with them since he was four and is currently studying at university. Jacqui and Malcolm will support him throughout that time and with transitioning into independent living when the time comes.
Continuing support
Talking about his time with Jacqui and Malcolm, Jack said: “I came to Jacqui and Malcolm when I was four-years-old and immediately they treated me as if I was one of their own. Throughout my 15 years of living with them, I’ve created countless core memories that will stay with me for the rest of my life.
“Whilst living with Jacqui and Malcolm, I’ve had my struggles but they’ve always been there for me, offering support and guidance. They’ve helped me navigate through school, friendships and life in general. They’ve helped shape me into the person I am today and have helped prepare me for the future.
“I couldn’t have imagined how amazing living with Jacqui and Malcolm would be and I just want to thank them for changing my life for the better. I wouldn’t have changed a single thing. Living with them has taught me that you don’t need to be blood-related to be family.”
The couple said the support they have had from Gateshead fostering service and the training provided has been vital for them, especially learning about subjects they knew little about, which helped them support the children they have cared for.
Councillor Fiona Pearce, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, said: “We wish Jacqui and Malcom all the best in their very well-deserved retirement.
“The fostering team have really valued them immensely as carers as they have not only looked after many children but have used their expertise to support other foster carers and assist with training and recruitment of new carers. We have many amazing foster carers supporting our Gateshead children.
“They really are a lifeline to our children and make a lasting difference to each one of their lives, but we simply don’t have enough carers for the number of children who need them, so we need people to come forward and find out more.”
Those who think they could provide a nurturing home for children in Gateshead are asked to contact the Foster with North East Team on 0800 917 7771, email contact@fosterwithnortheast.org.uk, enquire at www.fosterwithnortheast.org.uk/enquire-now or register for an information event at www.gateshead.gov.uk/fosteringinformationevents.
