3. Young Recruits: The experience of biological children of foster carers

This episode focuses on the crucial yet often overlooked role of biological children in foster care families. Host and Principal Practitioner at MacKillop Family Services, Summah Hemming, meets young adults, Abi, Sophie and Charlotte, who grew up as the biological children in foster care families to unpack their perspective and experience. Abi, Sophie, and Charlotte discuss the positive impacts on their emotional development and future aspirations, and highlight how familial bonds, shared responsibilities, and life lessons shaped their views on empathy, love, and loss. Carol, a current carer, shares strategies for balancing the needs of biological and foster children and underscores the invaluable life skills gained from fostering.Dr. Margaret Kertesz’s research provides further insight into the importance of recognising and supporting the perspectives of biological children in foster care families. The podcast offers valuable insights for current and prospective foster carers, emphasising the importance of family discussions, emotional balance, and the profound impact foster care can have on all members of the foster care family.(03:02) Meet Abi: A Foster Care Sister(03:37) Charlotte and Sophie's Foster Care Sibling Experience(07:48) Carol's Journey as a Foster Carer(10:24) The Emotional Impact of Foster Caring(13:29) Coping Strategies and Support Systems(28:34) The Positive Impact of Foster Care on Biological ChildrenFind out more about becoming a foster carer at MacKillop Family Services, visit www.mackillop.org.au/fostercare or call 1300 791 677Access the MacKillop Family Services and Melbourne University Grief and Loss Research Report – http://www.mackillop.org.au/loss-and-grief-in-foster-careIf themes in this content have impacted you, consider contacting Australia's National Grief & Loss Support Hub, Griefline at griefline.org.au or call 1300 845 745.If you’re a foster carer and require support with grief and loss, please contact your agency for pathways to support.Produced by Posterboy MediaNarration written by Katy Warner