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Chloe McCready grew up in a very special home in Derby. Her parents decided to become foster carers, opening their hearts and home to children who needed love and safety. Chloe was just a young girl when her family’s journey in fostering began, but it shaped her life in amazing ways.

Her mother had started out as a childminder, but she realised that fostering was her true calling. Chloe’s childhood was filled with the sounds of laughter, tears, and the joyful chaos of having different children come and go. The experience gave Chloe a deep understanding of love, resilience, and empathy.

“You treat them like you’ve known them forever,” says Chloe. “They become your family, and you give them so much love that it shapes who you are.”

Chloe remembers the excitement and nervousness she felt whenever a new child arrived. Each child brought their own story, and her family welcomed them with open arms, no matter the circumstances. Even though many of these children had experienced difficult situations, Chloe’s home became a place where they could feel safe and cared for.

Fostering brought many learning moments. Chloe recalls times when her foster siblings experienced strong emotions. These moments made her feel especially connected to her family and taught her the importance of patience, understanding, and kindness.

“Fostering teaches your own children really valuable lessons,” Chloe explains. “It helps you learn about empathy, sharing, and understanding others.”

Her parents made sure Chloe’s voice was heard. They talked openly together about the changes fostering brought to their lives, which made Chloe feel secure and valued.

“It’s so important to listen to your own birth children,” she says. “They’re experiencing this journey alongside you.”

As Chloe grew older, the lessons she learned from fostering stayed with her. She witnessed how her family’s love and care helped children heal and grow. Seeing these transformations inspired her to want to help even more children.

During the lockdown, Chloe’s passion for helping others became even clearer. She saw how difficult things were for a young boy who had been living with her family for years. This experience helped her decide to become a social worker so she could support children like him.

Now, as a supervising social worker at a Foster For East Midlands partner council, Chloe uses her personal experiences to help foster carers and children. She understands both the joys and challenges of fostering. Her unique perspective allows her to relate to foster families in a special way. Chloe believes fostering changes lives for the better, not just for the children who come into the home, but for the whole family.

“I would encourage anyone to look into fostering,” Chloe says with a smile. “It truly enriches lives and creates a loving environment for everyone.”

Chloe’s story shows how fostering can create strong, lasting bonds. Her journey is a reminder that every child deserves a loving home, and that love has the power to transform lives. Through her work, Chloe continues to make a difference, carrying forward the lessons of compassion, patience, and hope that she learned from her own family’s fostering journey.

Councillor Paul Hezelgrave, Lead Cabinet Member for Foster for East Midlands, said:

“Chloe’s story is a powerful reminder of how fostering transforms lives. From growing up in a fostering home to becoming a social worker, Chloe’s journey shows the incredible impact of love, empathy, and resilience. Her dedication inspires us all to believe in the power of compassion and the difference one family can make.”

For more information, visit fosterforeastmidlands.org.uk, call 03033 132 950, or email hello@fosterforeastmidlands.org.uk.

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