Jenna

Meet Jenna

Jenna wanted to become a foster carer, but was worried that because she was single and working full-time she wouldn't be suitable. When Jenna connected with Life Without Barriers, she learnt that this was definitely not the case.

Jenna has now been a foster carer for almost two years with Life Without Barriers and is one of our Carer Ambassadors in Melbourne, Victoria.

Why did you decide to become a foster carer?

When asked why she decided to become a foster carer, Jenna simply answered, ‘because I could’.

Through short-term placements, emergency and respite care, Jenna has cared for seven children. The youngest being 10-years-old. Jenna also knows the importance of providing care to youth and teens as well and has had 12-17-year-olds.

Since becoming a carer, how has your perception changed?

Jenna became a Carer Ambassador to debunk myths, like the one she was under before coming to us, so people realise that becoming a foster carer is accessible to people who are willing and wanting.

“I think there are a lot of myths out there about foster care, around who can do it, what to expect and how you’ll feel as a foster carer when it is time for your foster child to move on,” Jenna said.

“Now that I’m almost two years in, having provided short-term, respite and emergency care, I wanted to be available to potential new carers and existing ones to share my experience.

“I’m often asked: ‘how can you give them back?’

“My answer is; your perception of foster care changes when you know this is the role that you are playing in their long life. And once you can accept where your role starts and ends, you know you’ve had an impact.”

Jenna also thought that would be an issue for her before starting her first short-term placement, but as she explains, the heart of the matter is that there is always another child who needs your help for a little while.

What are some highlights from your foster care journey?

“I love teaching my kids life skills,” Jenna said.

“As they are usually older, we love cooking together or going shopping for any essentials they need.

“I also love doing their favourite activities. I remember one child loved going to the skate park, so I took him, and although I don’t really have any interest – I could see how much joy it gave him and how relaxed and comfortable he was.

“Or going to a trampoline park with other children I’ve cared for – so they have their own space to play and have fun and meet other people; it’s wonderful to see."

What would you say to someone interested in becoming a foster carer?

One of the most important tips Jenna has learnt along the way is always to ask questions. To speak up, say something if you have a question or concern, ask it, or say it – your care team is there to answer all queries or find out the answer for you.

“I really leaned on that support from my care team, especially during my first short-term placement, it was a huge learning curve for me – that support is crucial,” Jenna said.

“I also learnt to have my own rules. That is my own personal boundaries. My intake officer knows that I need support, so I can go to the gym, for example.

“Or that I work full-time, so not to be contacted at that time unless it’s very important. Those sorts of things.”

The main message Jenna wants to share for anyone considering becoming a carer is that you should go for it.

“I really am of the firm belief, that if you are willing and have the capacity, anyone can become a foster carer.”