‘By the skin of our teeth’: A UK foster carer’s monthly costs

Inspired by Tom's sister-in-law who grew up in foster care, Lisa and Tom felt compelled to help others in a similar way and began fostering 15 years ago. They have cared for children from very “difficult” backgrounds, Lisa says, including young girls who had been sexually abused and a child who was orphaned when he watched his mother die before his eyes. “I think I’m like this because of my mother, she was always hostess with the mostest,” Lisa says. When it comes to the worsening cost-of-living crisis and its impact on her family, Lisa can only say: “I don’t know whether to laugh or cry.” Despite her stress, she frequently finds humour and joy in small moments, like when she recounts her latest prudent food shop or when the children sneak into the room to play with cuddly toys. But I don’t think we can realistically go on like this, we have to make practical financial decisions for our biological children too,” Lisa says.