Ann and Alistair Walker have fostered with West Lothian Council for nearly two decades. In that time the couple from Fauldhouse have looked after nearly 50 children through a mixture of short break stays and over longer periods.
Having had 6 children of their own Ann and Alistair were well versed in family life and as their own children grew up and started to leave home, they spotted an advert that made them make the decision of a lifetime.
Alistair said: "Our journey into fostering was really by chance. We've always had a busy house and family life is just something we were used to. One day we were out in the car and we spotted an advert looking for foster carers. We were at a point in our life were our own children were starting to move out and we thought 'well we have plenty space and love to give. Why not?' and here we are nearly 20 years later."
Before welcoming their first ever foster child, the couple had a pretty good idea of the type of fostering they wanted to do but as time moved on, this changed with their family home being the perfect place to welcome then eight-year-old Morgan and her sister before being joined by their younger siblings.
Morgan has now been part of Ann and Alistair's family for 14 years. Now 22, she is living independently and has undertaken a Modern Apprenticeship with Sky after achieving a degree in Business Management.
Morgan said: "I've always been made to feel part of the family from the very beginning. When you are young, you don't know that your life is any different to the next child. Being part of the family has given me so many amazing moments and given me experiences that will continue to influence the course of my life for the better, I can say that for certain. For anyone who has ever considered fostering even if it's just for short periods, you could potentially give a young person one moment that creates a positive memory that lasts a lifetime."
Ann and Alistair are both keen to let individuals that are considering fostering know that they shouldn't be worried. There is a whole process in place to match children who need a foster home, with the right families.
Ann said: "There is a good process in place with West Lothian Council guiding you through all the possibilities and scenarios that can come with fostering. You aren't left on your own and we've had excellent communication with the team over the years.
She added: "People often say to us that we must have big hearts. I say that you don't need a big heart, you just need a little room in your heart to give. I think this is something that we are all capable of. It can be challenging but the joy fostering has brought our family far outweighs it all. I would encourage anyone reading this to please get in touch with the family-based care service at the council today. One little conversation can end up being the best decision you've ever made."
Executive councillor for health and social care Anne McMillan met with the family and staff from the council's Family Based Care Service.
Cllr McMillan said: "I was delighted to meet with Ann, Alistair and Morgan and to hear their heart-warming story. If you think you could help care for a West Lothian child then please get in touch with the dedicated team at the Family Based Care Service today."
If you would like to find out more about fostering please visit our website https://fosteringandadoption.westlothian.gov.uk/ or email our friendly team FamilyBasedCareService@westlothian.gov.uk
Pictured - Ann, Alistair and Morgan met with Executive councillor for health and social care, Anne McMillan along staff from the Family Based Care Service at West Lothian Civic Centre
