The Wiltshire carpenter who traded tools for fostering
Wiltshire Council's asking people considering a career change to think about becoming a foster carers
A former carpenter in Wiltshire who's crafted a new career as a foster care is urging others to 'jump in' if they're considering a change of scene.
Joe, who spent eight years in carpentry, said the Covid-19 pandemic gave him a chance to step back and think about what he wanted to achieve in his life.
“Lots of people have a dream of like winning the lottery or becoming a millionaire and making loads of people’s lives better," he said.
"I couldn’t do that. I couldn’t improve lots of people’s lives, but I had a chat with my wife and we considered that we could change one or two people’s lives."
Joe and his wife Ana are now foster carers to two children.
They've shared their experience as Wiltshire Council is asking people looking at a career change to consider fostering a local child.
Joe said: “Deciding to become a foster carer is obviously a huge thing. It’s a huge life change and I think people who think about fostering just keep it in the back of their mind for a very long time before they commit.
“I went from a very traditional 9 – 5 Monday to Friday and now fostering is vocational, it’s my whole life. I don’t work as a carpenter anymore I’m a foster carer full time and I’m basically a stay-at-home dad, making lunches, doing the PE kit and making sure the kids are getting to the right clubs on time – all the standard parental stuff."
He says many may already be thinking about becoming a foster carer, and is encouraging them to have the conversation with their partners.
Joe said: "You probably may not have been brave enough to have had the chat with your partner yet or you may both be considering to do it later on when the kids are older and have left home.
"Jump in is what I’d say. Pick up the phone to Wiltshire Council, ask them about fostering. It’s actually a really nice process becoming a foster carer and they will be happy to answer any questions you have.”
Making a lasting difference
Wiltshire's Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, Cllr Laura Mayes, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services said fostering can be more meaningful than other jobs.
She said it will have a lasting impacted on a child's life.
Cllr Mayes said: “January often feels like a time for new beginnings, and many people start thinking about a career change or pursuing something more meaningful.
"You won’t be doing it alone—we’ll be with you every step of the way, offering support and training. Joe’s story beautifully captures what it means to be a foster carer."
“As a council, we’re proud to offer generous fostering rates to ensure this vital role is accessible to everyone. Fostering with us means you’re helping children stay close to their communities while ensuring resources go directly to supporting local families.
"There are many different types of fostering to suit a variety of circumstances, and if you’ve ever considered it, we want to hear from you. There’s no pressure—just contact us to learn more and explore whether fostering could be right for you."
Foster carers need to be aged 21 and over and have a spare room (or they can use their own bedroom, if they have space for a cot, to foster a baby aged up to twelve months)
People need time to care for a child and a willingness to understand young people who have experienced trauma and loss. Fostering payments are from £400 to £740 a week, per child depending on skills and experience.”
People can also find out about the council’s fostering events including online information sessions. People should download the Teams app to join:
• Saturday 11 January 4pm – 5pm
• Monday 13 January 12 noon – 1pm
• Monday 13 January 7pm to 8:30pm
There are also face to face events:
• Thursday 16 January 4:30pm – 6:30pm - Fostering drop-in Westbury Library, Edward Street, Westbury BA13 3BD
• Thursday 23 January 11am – 4pm Wiltshire Council Careers Fair, County Hall Trowbridge
• Wednesday 29 January 11am – 2pm Leighton Recreation Centre, Wellhead Lane, Westbury BA13 3PT
We can find out more information on fostering here.