Almost three-quarters (73%) of Brits admit that their understanding and beliefs about foster care have come from television shows (including fictional shows like Tracy Beaker).
What has been called the “Tracy Beaker effect” has led to misunderstandings about how this process actually works, causing some people to fear the system itself.
Almost half of Brits (49%) said the top things they would object to when it came to foster care were being LGBTQ+, being disabled, being semi-skilled or unskilled, or being over 55. It includes being.
In fact, 35% worry they're too old to adopt, and 72% feel “old” by age 55.
The survey of 2,005 adults found that while almost a fifth (18%) believed being single was a hindrance, being from an ethnic minority or having a good income It turns out that some people feel the same way about not being able to do anything.
However, the National Fostering Group has teamed up with British artist Rankin to reveal the 'face of foster care' and highlight the diversity that exists among foster carers.
The world-renowned photographer, who has photographed the likes of Kate Moss, Kendall Jenner and the late Queen, has now photographed 17 foster parents in their daily lives in a bid to encourage more people to come forward and take the challenge themselves. ing. The survey found that 44% of those surveyed said they believed they were not qualified to become foster parents.
“This photo shoot was a celebration of diversity, compassion, and amazing people who are open to nurturing,” said Rankin. I was very happy to be able to capture the essence of it.”
Rankin's photos also include portraits of Carol McIntyre and John McIntyre, both 73, who have been foster parents for the past 13 years. During that time, they have cared for more than 20 of her children, from various backgrounds and ages.
They said: “Because of our age, people often think we'll be too old to care for or adopt a child. But, on the contrary, fostering gives us a new sense of purpose and helps us grow in retirement. I realized that it enriches my life.”
Steve Christie, CEO of National Fostering Group, added: “What these striking images show is that there is no such thing as a typical foster parent. Fostering is suitable for everyone, regardless of their background, relationship status or circumstances. Masu.
“With nearly 11,000 foster carers in urgent need, it is more important than ever that everyone who wants to become a foster carer comes forward.”
The main misconceptions that keep people from finding foster parents:
- believe they are too old
- not making enough money
- have a disability
- believe they are too young
- fear of the system
- being single
- Being LGBTQ+
- are from an ethnic minority
