A Day in the Life of a Foster Carer: Lisa

Lisa Williams fosters alongside her husband Michael and their daughters who are 11 and 16. They foster two boys, aged 9 and 15, long term. 

As a foster carer, no two days are ever quite the same.  Each one brings its own mix of routines, surprises, laughter, and the occasional challenge. But what stays constant is the focus on providing a safe, nurturing home for the children in my care, many of whom have experienced trauma or instability before coming to live with me. 

I practise therapeutic parenting, which means building secure attachments through empathy, consistency, and understanding . This approach helps the children feel safe and supported as they heal and grow.

My day usually starts early, around 6:30am.  For my youngest child, mornings involve gentle wake-ups, breakfast prep, and helping with dressing or hygiene routines. For my older child, it’s more about gentle reminders to get ready while keeping the atmosphere calm and predictable before school drop off.  

We always eat breakfast together as a family—it’s a key moment to chat about the day ahead. Knowing what to expect reduces anxiety for children who’ve lived with unpredictability. This structure offers the security of routines that many of these children have missed. 

I might also have a quick call with a child’s social worker, arrange appointments (like health checks or therapy sessions), or attend a virtual meetings or foster training sessions. The “fostering side” of the role—paperwork, planning, training and liaising with professionals—is as important as the day-to-day parenting.

Afternoons revolve around picking up the children from school and supporting their emotional needs. I always ask open questions about their day, “What was the best part?” or “What felt tricky?”.

Evenings are for connection and chilling out.  We cook and eat dinner together, sharing highs and lows from the day.  It’s a chance to reflect on what went well and what they could try differently tomorrow.  We support them with homework, encourage hobbies and facilitate contact with birth families. The key is about forming routines, being consistent, empathetic, and nurturing.   

Contact us today

Call 03000 190 200 

Email hello@fosterwithus.org.uk 

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