In 2024, John began his fostering journey with a clear purpose: to be a consistent, nurturing adult for teenagers who need stability the most.

Before becoming a foster carer, John worked in the catering industry, where he supported vulnerable adults, many of whom spoke very little English, into employment. That experience shaped his understanding of inequality, confidence, and advocacy.

He said: “Helping support them personally with a roof over their head, recognising that they might be embarrassed by their lack of English and standing up for them when they suffered abuse from customers has all led me to develop the skills for fostering.”

Why teenagers?

John has chosen to care exclusively for adolescents and teenagers. While some carers may feel uncertain about supporting this age group, John embraces both the challenge and the privilege of guiding young people through this pivotal stage of life.

“They don’t do anything you ask them to do, because developmentally, that’s what teens are supposed to be like. They want to argue with you, but they don’t want to just argue – they want to be understood and accepted. They’re fascinating, and the future.”

Becoming the role model he once needed

John does not have birth children, but his motivation to foster is deeply personal. He remembers how important positive adult role models were during his own teenage years.

“When I was a young adult, there were people who supported me. I remember those significant adult role models who really made a difference to me in those difficult teenage years, helping me transition from teen to adult. That’s what I want to be for the teens in my care.”

Challenging perceptions

As a single man, John is aware that fostering doesn’t always fit the traditional image people may have of a carer. He has encountered doubts, but he has never allowed them to define his journey.

“Some people don’t expect a single man to be a carer. Culturally there are not that many examples of male carers, it’s always women seen as primary care givers. But I knew I had something to give. My gender and sexuality has not, so far, been a barrier to doing the best job. The kids don’t care. They don’t make the same judgments some adults make.”

John speaks openly about the realities of fostering teenagers. He does not pretend it is easy, but he believes deeply in its impact.

“Don’t be naïve. It’s the most difficult job you’ll ever take on. But it’s incredibly rewarding because you see a young person emerging from the chaos.”

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Download: Fostering information pack 2025 (PDF)