Then why not think about fostering. If you’ve got a spare room and want to help change a child’s life, then fostering could be for you! Fostering is something that can be really positive not only to the child you are caring for, but also your own children.

Mel and Dave have fostered for Surrey County Council for six years. Married with two children – Annie, 21, and Tom, 17, the couple are currently fostering John*, who is a similar age to their son. What do you enjoy most about fostering?

It’s our chance to give back. We can use our experience and parenting skills right now, rather than waiting for grandchildren. The smiles and the hugs are so rewarding. We enjoy being able to give someone transferable skills, make them laugh, and have a place to feel safe - it’s given our family an enriched life experience.

What’s a typical day? No day is like any other. Some days are manic with doing the school run and organising social activities. Some days are quiet and relaxing with lots of laughter and fun. What’s the support like? Our social worker Sue, is fantastic and has helped us so much.

Surrey County Council provide workshops, training, support groups and fun days – we’re part of a professional team. Tom and Annie - what’s it like having a new sibling in the family? It’s been lovely having John here – he’s got a great sense of humour and we have a good laugh.

As we’re nearly the same age, having another member of the family has made things more fun. Do you have any advice to other families wanting to foster? I really recommend it – the love you can experience is incredibly rewarding. Seeing young people develop a sense of purpose and start to fulfil their potential is great.

We can’t make the world a perfect place, but we can provide a safe, non-judgemental space where they can learn to deal with life, and create a good future. Why not try it! Could you become a foster carer? For more information on fostering, visit: www.surreycc.gov.uk/fostering Call: 08000 96 96 26. *Name has been changed. iStock photo.