Could you change a child’s life by sharing yours in 2023?

Adele Hwozdyk and her husband Lee, from Penrith, have fostered for 13 years and are foster carers for siblings aged 10 and 12. 

Adele Hwozdyk and her husband Lee, from Penrith, have fostered for 13 years (Image: Adele and Lee Hwozdyk)

Adele said: “I really enjoyed being a parent to our own sons and got so much out of it. We felt we’d been very lucky and really wanted to give something back and make a difference to the lives of other children. I can honestly say that fostering is one of the best things we’ve ever done.”

To become a foster carer, you must be at least 21 years old, have a spare bedroom and the time to dedicate yourself to fostering. In return you will receive ongoing training, support and generous payments for each child you foster.

If you are interested in finding out more about fostering, you can attend one of our upcoming information events in your area and speak to our team and carers:

Thursday, January 12: Barrow fostering drop in at Costa Coffee, Hindpool Retail Park, Hindpool Road, Barrow-in-Furness LA14 2PD from 11:00 – 13:00.

Thursday, January 19: Workington fostering information event at the Washington Hotel, Washington Street, CA14 3AY, from 18:00 – 20:00.

Thursday, January 26: Kendal fostering information event at Stramongate Primary School, from 18:00 – 20:00 (Parking is available on the school premises and access is via Sandes Avenue, Kendal).

Saturday, January 28: Carlisle fostering information event at the Crown and Mitre Hotel, English Street, CA3 8HZ from 12:00 – 14:00.

Alternatively speak to us today on 0303 333 1216 or register your interest online at cumbria.gov.uk/fostering/

Fostering with Cumbria County Council (Image: Cumbria County Council)