Lucy Spraggan on the life-changing experience of being a foster parent

Lucy Spraggan will never forget her experience fostering children, and she’s urging others to consider becoming foster parents too.
The singer Lucy Spraggan is encouraging more people to foster children. (PA).The singer Lucy Spraggan is encouraging more people to foster children. (PA).
The singer Lucy Spraggan is encouraging more people to foster children. (PA).

The singer and musician, who first found fame on X Factor back in 2012 at a time when she was working as a baby photo salesperson in Sheffield, fostered 12 children, from newborn babies to teenagers, for short-term placements.

“It was a brilliant experience and I’d love to do it again,” says Spraggan, who at the time was married. “I do hope people consider it because there are so many children out there who need help.”

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Here, the singer – whose sixth album, Choices, will be released in the autumn (if social distancing eases, she’ll also go on a UK tour) – shares her experience of fostering and tips on caring for children.

Buxton-born Spraggan, 29, says those considering it should approach their local council and get as much information as possible so they know what is involved.

“Once you’ve done that, talk through what the role demands with a friend or family member, which will help you be clear and realistic about what you’re potentially taking on,” she says.

“If you’re doing it as a couple, it’s especially important you talk it over together, as you need to know that your expectations match up.

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“The process will involve your background being checked out and you’ll be interviewed. Once you’re accepted, you’ll be given guidance on helping children of all ages and first aid training.”

Spraggan says fostering is an important public service.

“There are children who need you in your community and from all walks of life. They don’t choose to be in care, but we can choose to be foster carers as adults.

“There’s a massive sense of satisfaction, feeling you’ve helped a kid in some way. Seeing a child smile and open up for the first time, teaching them something, even if it’s as simple as the capital of a country, is really rewarding.

“Small things that you do with them – from reading a book to going for a walk – can be a distraction for them and take their minds off their problems. Some are very stressed because of their experiences and need to be encouraged to play and relax.”

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Spraggan says fostering has provided her with many memorable moments.

“I went on a camping trip with a child and I really saw the difference you can make, with just a little bit of love and attention. It really touched me.

“Another special time was with a toddler who I’d been told was non-verbal, and as I gave him a bath, I counted to 10 as we poured water out of a jug. Suddenly, he interrupted and finished the counting. It was a really emotional moment.

“I hope I helped them by giving them different, new experiences and showing them things that I liked to do.

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“Of course, there’s always music in my house, and I’d play my guitar and encourage them to sing, or show them how to try out playing different instruments for themselves. They were happy times and it’s a great feeling to think you’ve maybe given some good memories.

“The children I cared for were absolute legends and I’ll never forget them. “I think about them a lot.

“There’s a common misconception that foster kids are so troubled, they’ll just come in and smash your home up. That wasn’t my experience at all.

“It was hard work but nothing but rewarding.

“I was a pretty terrible teen and felt like no one understood me, and so I found I could relate to children who were feeling that way themselves.

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“I realised they often just wanted to be listened to, and to have their opinions heard.”

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James Mitchinson