The Power of Relationships in Fostering – A Conversation with Crystal
As part of this year’s Foster Care Fortnight and its powerful theme, ‘The Power of Relationships’, we sat down with Crystal Chan, one of our dedicated Supervising Social Workers at Lorimer Fostering, to hear her perspective on why relationships are at the heart of everything we do.
“Relationships are everything in fostering”
For Crystal, fostering is all about connection. “Children in care have often experienced broken trust,” she says. “It’s through having stable and consistent relationships that they start to feel safe again.”
She shared a touching story about a young person who had become shut down emotionally. With the carer’s consistent, gentle check-ins – never giving up – the child eventually opened up one night and asked for a hug. “That moment took weeks to build,” Crystal reflects. “But it shows how powerful that connection can be.”
A Role Built on Trust, Flexibility and Support
No two days are ever the same for Crystal. As a Supervising Social Worker, her role involves wearing many hats – often within the same day. “We’re like a mix of coach, problem solver and emotional support,” she says.
One moment might involve supporting a carer through a difficult morning, and the next, joining a school meeting or helping a young person reflect on their progress. What ties it all together is the focus on relationships. Building trust, offering consistency, and being there in both the messy moments and the victories.
Celebrating the Little Wins
“The most rewarding part of the job,” Crystal says, “is seeing carers grow in confidence and watching young people find their place.” From a teenager choosing to talk instead of withdrawing, to a child learning and using a calm-down strategy – these are the moments that show the impact of strong relationships.
She also recognises the strength within the team at Lorimer. “We lean on each other. We support each other. That’s the power of relationships at work too.”
Encouraging Future Foster Carers
When asked what advice she’d give to someone thinking about fostering, Crystal’s response is heartfelt and honest: “Just go for it – but go in with your eyes and heart open. You don’t need to be perfect. You just have to care and be willing to learn.”
Fostering is not always easy, but with the right support and mindset, it can be one of the most rewarding journeys a person can take. “You won’t be doing it alone,” Crystal adds. “We are all here to support you every step of the way.”
Thank you, Crystal!
We’d like to say a huge thank you to Crystal for taking the time to share her experiences and insight as part of Foster Care Fortnight. Her perspective highlights just how vital relationships are. Not just between carers and children, but within our team and wider support network too.
At Lorimer, we’re proud to work alongside passionate professionals like Crystal who live and breathe The Power of Relationships in fostering every single day.
Interested in fostering? We’d love to hear from you!
If you’re considering fostering and want to work with a North West fostering agency, we’d love to hear from you.
Get in touch with us today or call 07938 575 738 to speak with our friendly team.
Alternatively, submit your details below and our fostering adviser, Rachael, will give you a call!
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