Taking in a child from care is a life-changing decision filled with love, hope, and a desire to provide a better future. That's what I felt when my partner and I embraced my stepdaughter into our family. We fought tirelessly to have her live with us, trying to provide her with the warmth and security she deserves. But the journey has been far more challenging than we anticipated.

My stepdaughter's behaviours pose daily obstacles and, despite our devotion, it has strained our family to the breaking point. My partner and I have recently separated, and our other two young children have been witnesses to the unfolding difficulties. We sought help from professionals countless times, but support arrives now, only when I am at the very edge of my ability to cope.

It's deeply unsettling that families like ours, who choose to take children from care, are left to navigate such complexities with minimal preparation or support. Unlike foster families, we weren't required to undergo training before welcoming a child into our home. Instead, we’re offered training programs only after we face difficulties that might have been mitigated with proper preparation.

Statistics show that behavioral challenges are common in children who come from care, due to prior trauma and instability. For the well-being of these vulnerable children and their new families, it's essential that training that’s received by foster families is provided in advance for other families as well.

Comprehensive training for parents taking children in from care can equip them with critical skills and strategies to manage behavioural challenges effectively, improving outcomes for both children and families. It can prevent situations from reaching crisis levels as mine did, fostering a safer, more nurturing transition.

Join me in urging governmental and social service agencies to mandate and provide comprehensive training for families taking children out of care. Stand with us in creating a more supportive and prepared environment for these families. Sign this petition to help drive change and support families like ours before it becomes too late.