We sat down with recently approved foster carer Hayley, to talk about why ’empty nest syndrome’ led to her decision to start fostering after raising a family. We’ re looking forward to following her journey as it unfolds over the coming months.
Decision to foster
For Hayley, the decision to foster wasn’t sudden, it was a journey years in the making. As her daughters grew up and began to carve out their own paths, Hayley found herself reflecting on the next chapter for her family. With one daughter preparing to move out and another planning to travel, their household was on the cusp of a major shift – and space.
“I think it was always kind of going to happen. It was timing really, and with our girls being adults, it just felt like the right time to do it.”
Raising a family
Hayley and her husband had considered fostering years ago, especially after facing fertility challenges following the birth of their eldest daughter. But the timing never felt quite right. Their priority was always their daughters, and they didn’t want fostering to impact them while they were still growing up at home.
Now, with one preparing for marriage and the other working full-time and planning to travel, Hayley found herself experiencing what she called “a bit of empty nest syndrome.” The once bustling family days out—trips to the zoo, park picnics, and circus visits—had faded as her daughters matured. Fostering offered a chance to bring that energy back into their lives.
“I missed the family days out with our girls because they’re not interested now,” Hayley said. “They’ve got their own lives. So it’s lovely to do that again.”
Making the leap
The spark to take the leap came from a close friend, Rachel, who had fostered. Hayley had supported Rachel’s fostering journey. That experience gave Hayley the confidence to say, “I think this is the time for me.”
With encouragement from Rachel and guidance from a social worker, Hayley and her husband began the process. They were approved for short-term fostering in August, specifically for children aged 0–3, and have already welcomed children into their home through stay-over care.
“Stay-over care has been a brilliant way of getting experience with different ages,” Hayley said. “I’ve never ruled out primary age children, so it’s good experience while we wait for our own placement.”
A family affair
The whole family has embraced the change. Hayley’s daughters have been “absolutely amazing,” engaging with the children and helping them feel safe and welcome. Even her husband, who has always been supportive, is now excited—though understandably protective.
“There’s an element of nervousness, mainly in protecting me,” Hayley explained. “But we trust the social workers to make the right decisions for us.”
For Hayley, fostering is about rediscovering purpose, connection, and the joy of nurturing. As she and her family prepare for their first permanent placement, they’re already seeing the rewards in the smiles, hugs, and trust of the children they’ve cared for.
“It’s really rewarding,” Hayley said. “We’ve loved it so far.”
Ready to foster after family?
If Hayley’s story has inspired you to take your first step into fostering, fill in our contact form below and we’ll be in touch.
