John and Verity Wolfenden have welcomed foster children into their home for respite, emergency, and short-term stays.

The couple has had children from the age of two to 18, individuals and siblings for stays of one night, a month or a year.

They describe it as a learning experience.

“No two situations are the same, so you have to learn to be flexible,” Mrs Wolfenden said.

The family has started taking on foster children for longer-term stays, a move Mrs Wolfenden said was prompted by the need for carers to take on teenagers.

“There's such a great need for carers, so in the circumstances we thought we would trial it for 12 months,” she said.

“I work full time so my husband puts in a lot of effort to look after the children and having them attend appointments such as medical, dental, speech therapy and counselling to name but a few.  

“Having him free during the day makes it much easier, especially for the little ones.”

The couple currently cares for two teenagers, who have been with them for almost a year.

Soon, one of them will transition to independent living when she turns 18, while Mrs Wolfenden hopes the 16-year-old boy will stay with them until he turns 18.

"He has fitted in to our household really well and is easy to care for,” she said. 

“He is really happy with us and hopefully he will soon be joined by another teenager.”

While it was always sad to see the children move on, the couple said they are focused on making their time together a positive experience for all.

The couple has urged other locals to consider becoming carers.