How Barnardo's Foster Care Shaped the Person I Am Today

“My foster mum gave me the best feeling in the world, she always made me feel part of the family and after a couple of weeks her house became home.”

Corey Evans was just nine when he moved from the city to rural Ceredigion to live with his foster parent, Bridget Davies. Now 24, with a home and partner of his own, he looks back on the experience with deep gratitude.

“It was a very different environment, and I was nervous, but within a couple of weeks it had become my home,” he said.

Bridget, a retired nurse and grandmother, had never fostered before, but quickly made Corey feel like family.

From walks in the countryside to reading sessions, Corey remembers a childhood full of care, encouragement and fun.

“She got me out of my shell and talking to people, she is the reason why I’m the person I am… I have the most fantastic memories of the most everyday things.”

Bridget’s dogs, her mother and her son all played a part in helping Corey settle. Though he left for college at 16, he remains close to Bridget and still calls her Mum.

“She’s always been there for me, and she gave me a second shot at life, a good life, and I’ll always be grateful to her.”

Bridget now fosters other children and says, “I absolutely love it… rewarding doesn’t begin to describe the feeling.”