A new film has been released to “dispel myths” about fostering.
The film from Peterborough City Council, called Jack’s Story, Stand by Me, premiered on Friday, October 3 and highlights the positive impact of fostering on teenagers.
It follows Jack, an IT apprentice at Peterborough City Council, as he reflects on his journey from joining his foster family at age 16 to now living independently.
He said: “Julie and Mick were fantastic, they really, really were.
“I feel like I was shown true love and respect.”
He added: “I think foster carers could make the world of difference to young people in Peterborough.
“Not everyone is given the love and support in the home environment they originate from, and some of us just need that extra parent who is willing to strive and provide those things.”
Jack believes foster care can be life-changing for many young people and expressed deep gratitude to his foster carers.
“To say ‘thank you’ to my foster carers right now, I’d would just genuinely say thank you.
“You’ve saved me.
“You’ve shown me the direction, and you’ve given me meaning, so thank you.”
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The film aims to challenge the stereotypes about teenagers in care and encourage more people to consider fostering.
Councillor Katy Cole, cabinet member for children’s services at Peterborough City Council, said: “Jack’s Story is a moving reminder of why fostering matters so much.
“Teenagers in care often face unfair stereotypes, but their stories show how, with the right care and support, they can achieve incredible things.
“We are so grateful to all our foster carers and hope this film inspires more people to think about fostering, especially older children and teenagers.”
Peterborough currently has more than 480 children in care but only 83 foster families.
Those interested in fostering are encouraged to contact the council’s fostering service.
‘ The preceding article may include information circulated by third parties ’
‘ Some details of this article were extracted from the following source uk.news.yahoo.com ’
