Suzanne's Story: The Power of Relationships in Fostering

Suzanne's Story: The Power of Relationships in Fostering

Suzanne Ritchie supports foster families through the Mockingbird programme

Suzanne has spent the last six and a half years as a Mockingbird hub carer, building and supporting relationships between children, young people and foster families. Her journey with Mockingbird began when she recognised the need for a supportive, community-based approach to fostering.

“The saying ‘it takes a village to raise a child’ is so true”. These words from Suzanne Ritchie, a dedicated foster carer for 12 years, encapsulate Wigan Borough’s Mockingbird programme and the theme of this year’s Foster Care Fortnight; "Power of Relationships".

Suzanne has spent the last six and a half years as a Mockingbird hub carer, building and supporting relationships between children, young people and foster families. Her journey with Mockingbird began when she recognised the need for a supportive, community-based approach to fostering. “When I first heard about Mockingbird nine years ago, I did some research and thought, this is something we really need. It's about family and community support," she explained.

Through Mockingbird, Suzanne supports eight families, each with unique needs. She said, "support looks different for every family". For example, she recently had a young person stay with her for a week, for other children this may be a sleepover every so often.

Every eight weeks, she also has three children come and stay with her for the weekend which gives everyone within the Mockingbird Hub that experience of an extended family and the opportunity of going for sleepovers with an aunt which they might not otherwise get. “They come in and they know where to put their shoes, they know where to get a drink, they know where the biscuits are and I know them, what they need, what time they go up to bed. It's just like they're coming visiting a family member. It's just a sleepover.”

Suzanne also works on bringing foster families together with monthly activities and meetings. “We have monthly get-togethers where all the families come together. It can be anything from going out for a walk to going to Blackpool Illuminations or having a picnic in the park,” she explained. These gatherings allow children and adults to build connections and share experiences, creating a network of support that extends beyond the immediate family.

"It's all about relationships," said Suzanne. "The connections we build help children feel more settled and improves stability for our children and carers." The Mockingbird model has proven to be a valuable support system, providing stability and a sense of belonging for children and their foster families.

In Wigan, the Mockingbird programme supports a diverse range of placements, including kinship care, special guardianship, and parent and child placements. “It's not a magic wand, but it makes a significant difference,” Suzanne added.

As we celebrate Foster Care Fortnight, Suzanne's story highlights the importance of relationships in fostering and showcasing how strong and supportive connections can transform the lives of children and foster families.

To find out more about fostering with Wigan Council, complete our online enquiry form.