In this episode of Voices of Fostering, experienced foster carers Travis and Marisol sit down with Tim Barclay, CEO of National Fostering Group, for an honest conversation about the realities of foster care—from both sides.
Discover how carer feedback shapes decisions at the highest level, why innovations like Magic Notes are transforming supervising social worker visits, and what it's like to advocate for children facing increasingly complex needs.
Travis and Marisol don't hold back—they share what's working, what's challenging, and why resilience and authenticity matter so much in fostering. Tim opens up about staying grounded, the importance of support groups, and how National Fostering Group is fighting for better resources from local authorities and other health services.
Key Topics:
✅ How carer feedback drives real change
✅ The game-changing Magic Notes innovation
✅ Supporting children with complex needs
✅ Navigating local authority challenges
✅ Why foster carer support groups matter
✅ What makes a great supervising social worker relationship
✅ The future of foster care support
Whether you're a foster carer, thinking about fostering, or work in the care sector, this conversation offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at how fostering agencies can truly put carers and children first.
If you would like to find out more about fostering please visit our website here.
If you have any questions that you would like to be answered on our next episode email podcast@nfa.co.uk
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