Single mother Avril, along with her 16-year-old daughter Piper, creates a secure and nurturing environment for Tim, a young boy with high-functioning needs, who is in Avril's care.

Having firsthand experience with the foster care system in the UK, Avril is passionate about providing a stable and loving home for children to prevent any child from enduring what she went through growing up.

“I provide a loving environment for Tim. I have experienced being in foster care and what it’s like to go through multiple homes. I want to give children a safe place to call their own. Once you show them the love they need, they will soon learn that they can trust you. Then, seeing them progress will make every step from there worth it,” says Avril.

When Tim joined the family in 2019 at the age of three, he unfortunately lacked the necessary support and care for his learning development. This meant he required extra support on entering Avril’s care. Tim's arrival was met with open arms from everyone in the whānau. Piper, in particular, was thrilled and receptive to having Tim as a foster sibling.

“When Tim was placed with us, he was shy, and he didn’t speak. I knew I needed to allow him space to process everything. I showed him his room, and he just sat there.”

“Tim and I now play together and talk all the time. It's been amazing having him around,” says Piper.

While Avril provides full-time care for Tim, Piper occasionally takes him out for fun activities, offering Avril a well-deserved break.

“I get to take Tim out to the movies and even rock climbing. We have a lot of fun together and it's a great way to bond with him outside the house,” says Piper.

Today, eight-year-old Tim appreciates his time with his foster sister, Piper, who consistently provides guidance and learning opportunities for him. He is a bright, compassionate, and loving boy who adores his foster whānau.

“It has been tough at times but it has also been rewarding. Witnessing how far he has progressed is truly remarkable. He is now a confident, young boy overflowing with love. I am proud of him and his growth over the past four years,” says Avril.

“Being a foster carer comes with its share of challenges, but you are making such a positive impact on a child’s life. You are helping them overcome the trauma they have experienced so that they can go out into the world and be the best version of themselves," says Avril.

“Anyone can do it [become a foster carer]. If a single mother with the support of her teenage daughter can do it, you can too. Think about the amazing memories you will be creating for that child. They will be memories they will cherish forever,” says Avril.

A mother-daughter team creates a safe and loving home for a tamaiti in foster care