Caring Families Aotearoa's Foster Care Awareness Week 2025 kicks off today, and it's all about showing our appreciation for all that our caregivers, and all caregivers across Aotearoa, do.
Foster carers, your mahi encompasses many roles at once – you are carers, teachers, mediators, counsellors and entertainers – and without you we would not be able to provide such good support and āwhina for our tamariki and rangatahi.
To mark the week, we spoke with Belinda and Mike Duncan, who are two of our valued respite caregivers and are pictured here with their children Hunter and Grace.
What drew you to become a caregiver?
A deep-seated desire to positively impact young people's lives drew us to become caregivers. We've always felt a strong connection to helping others, especially those who are vulnerable or in need of support. The idea of being a source of comfort and assistance for individuals during challenging times truly resonated with us.
Plus, we find great fulfilment in building relationships and learning from the experiences of those we care for. It's a role where we can help and grow personally and professionally.
What brings you the most satisfaction from this mahi?
The most satisfying part of caring for young people is our connection with them. Being able to support and guide them through their challenges while celebrating their achievements creates a strong bond. Witnessing their growth and development brings us immense joy, and knowing we're participating in their journey is incredibly fulfilling.
The connections we've formed with family members enhance this experience. Together, we create a supportive community that navigates the ups and downs, strengthening our relationships and amplifying the sense of purpose in our roles. Each shared moment, no matter how small, adds to that fulfilment and reminds us why we chose this path.
What advice would you give to anyone considering becoming a caregiver?
If you're considering becoming a caregiver for young people, we recommend approaching the role with an open heart and a willingness to learn. Understand that every young person is unique, with their own experiences and needs. Patience and empathy are key qualities that will help you build trust and connect with them.
Be prepared for the emotional ups and downs of this rewarding but challenging work. Caregiving can be demanding, so taking care of your well-being is essential. Establishing healthy boundaries and finding support will help you provide the best care possible.
Finally, embrace the journey of growth that comes with the role. You'll learn so much from the young people you care for, and every interaction can be a valuable lesson. Celebrate the small victories and cherish the relationships you build along the way—they make this work so meaningful.
❤️❤️❤️
Thank you for all you do, Duncan whānau - you are truly appreciated.
Happy Foster Care Awareness Week to all the incredible caregivers across the motu! If you'd like to find out more about becoming a foster carer, just check out our Caregiving page here.