Wondering what it’s like to be a man in fostering?
In the most recent episode of Let’s Talk About Fostering, host Faye sits down with Phil, who has been fostering with Clifford House alongside his wife Leanne and their three daughters for eight years. Phil is a big advocate for talking about mental health and breaking down the stigma surrounding men in foster care.
He opens up about challenging gender stereotypes, being a hands-on dad, why vulnerability is a strength, not weakness, and the profound impact a positive male role model can have on children in care.
What’s covered in this episode?
Faye chats with Phil about what it’s really like to be a foster dad and why, whether single or in a relationship, men have so much to offer children in care.
Sit down, relax, and listen to Phil and Faye explore:
- Why Phil and Leanne decided to start their fostering journey.
- How everyone has something to offer children and young people in care.
- Phil’s qualities and why he knew they’d make him a good foster parent.
- Challenging outdated gender roles.
- Why showing vulnerability matters.
- Welcoming a teenage lad into a home full of girls.
- How fostering has influenced Phil’s parenting.
- Advice for men who find emotional conversations difficult.
- Why children in foster care need positive male role models.
- Encouragement for single foster dads.
- Busting common myths about fostering.
- Phil’s final thoughts.
“Don’t think your circumstances rule you out. Whatever you’ve done in life brings value.”
Become a foster dad with Clifford House
Ready to be a positive male role model for children and young people in care?
Learn more about fostering with Clifford House, including our support, training, and generous fostering payments, by calling us on 0800 369 8515 or submitting an enquiry form.