Being a foster parent brings its challenges but also huge rewards, says Carl Burrell

When traincare supervisor Carl Burrell is not busy keeping our fleet clean, safe and tidy, he shares an even greater responsibility at home.

For the last 12 years, Carl and his wife have been foster carers, providing a safe and caring environment for children with disabilities.

They decided to become foster parents after their own children grew up and moved away. For Carl, it was a decision inspired by his grandmother.

“I grew up in Jamaica and my grandmother was in charge of me and my cousins most of the time,” he says. “She taught us to be kind to people and to give something back, so in memory of her, I try to show the same care for other kids.”

Carl currently fosters two children, a 15-year-old and an eight-year-old. As well as the lengthy application and vetting process, regular assessments ensure each child is settled and doing well.

“Kids with disabilities and learning difficulties provide more challenges. It’s hard work but it’s all about having the right training and support.”

Carl manages his fostering responsibilities around night shifts as part of the traincare team at Wembley Sidings (see page 10). It means he is on a different timetable to the rest of his family, but the set routine provides stability, he says.     

While many of the challenges are specific to fostering, there are common pressures shared by all parents. It’s why Arriva Rail London has established a Parents and Carers’ Network.

As well as being a forum where parents can get practical information and talk openly about their worries, work continues on a dedicated information hub, with plans ongoing for a parents’ buddy system.

For Carl, the network is a valuable resource to connect people in the company with shared experiences.