Fostering Kingdoms | Faith at the Heart of Fostering | Support & CPD for UK Foster Carers

Jessica Smithers-Jones
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Fostering Kingdoms is a faith-based podcast walking alongside UK foster carers with encouragement, gentle guidance, and practical CPD support. Each episode nurtures emotional wellbeing, resilience, and sustainable fostering through a Kingdom lens. This space exists to strengthen your heart, your home, and your calling. Putting care back into the carers so you can continue on your journey as a foster carer and with God at the centre of it all.

  1. 2h ago

    Why Foster Children Behave the Way They Do | Looking Beyond the Behaviour

    Why do children in foster care behave the way they do, and what might be happening underneath the behaviour we can see? As foster carers, we're given a lot of training around children's behaviour.But how often do we stop and ask a different question: What does this child believe? What do they believe about themselves?What do they believe about adults?What do they believe about love, safety and relationships? And perhaps just as importantly... What do we believe as foster carers and how are those beliefsinfluencing the way we respond? In this episode, Jess explores the connection between our beliefs, thoughts, reactions and behaviours, and why looking beneath behaviour can give us a very different perspective on both ourselves and the children in our care. A child who has experienced instability, rejection, loss or adultsrepeatedly leaving may develop deeply held beliefs about whether people are safe, whether relationships last or whether they themselves are worthy of love and belonging. Sometimes the behaviour we see on the surface may be connected to something much deeper underneath. And as adults, we aren't exempt. Beliefs such as "I have to keep everybody happy," "It'smy job to fix everything," or "I can't say no" caninfluence our own behaviour too, leading us to over-function, struggle with boundaries, continually pour into everyone else and eventually become exhausted or resentful. That's why this conversation isn't simply about changing children's behaviour. It's about developing the awareness to look deeper. In this episode, we explore: ✨The connection between beliefs and behaviour✨Why looking beneath a child's behaviour matters✨How past experiences can influence beliefs about adults and relationships✨Why some children may push away the very relationships they need✨The beliefs foster carers can unknowingly bring into their role✨People-pleasing, over-functioning and burnout✨Why behaviour shouldn't always be taken personally ✨Renewing our minds through Scripture✨Building greater self-awareness as a foster carer✨How these principles connect with sustainable fostering 📖Scripture featured: Romans 12:2 "Be transformed by the renewing of your mind." Rather than focusing only on what we can see externally, Scripturecontinually calls us back to what is happening internally. What are we thinking? What are we believing? What are we allowing to shape our minds? Because when our thinking begins to change, the way we respond can changetoo. The Sustainable Fostering Framework™ The Sustainable Fostering Framework™ was created to helpfoster carers look beyond simply getting through the next difficult day and begin building strong foundations for long-term sustainability. It's not simply about learning another strategy. It's an opportunity to reflect on your emotional, relational, financial andspiritual foundations, understand what's shaping the way you foster, and intentionally build a fostering journey that can be sustained for the longterm. Explore the Framework at:fosteringkingdoms.com/framework After listening, ask yourself: What beliefs might be influencing the way I show up in my fostering role? And when you're faced with difficult behaviour from a child, perhaps ask a different question: "What might this child believe that is making this responsefeel necessary to them?" I'd love to hear what stood out to you in the comments. If this episode helped you see behaviour differently, subscribe to Fostering Kingdoms and share it with another foster carer, social worker or professional who might benefit from the conversation. Because when we stop looking only at behaviour and start becoming curious about what's happening underneath, we create space for greater understanding, compassion and connection. #FosterCare #FosterCarers #Fostering #FosterChild #TraumaInformedCare#FosterCareUK #UKFostering #FosterCarerSupport #ChildBehaviour #Trauma#Attachment #ChristianFostering #FaithAndFostering

  2. Aug 19

    Don't Wait for Recognition – Start Recognising Others | Foster Carers

    Many foster carers spend years, sometimes decades, opening their homes, loving children, supporting families and making countless sacrifices. But what happens when it all comes to an end? In this episode, we explore a question that many foster carers quietly ask: "Was I just a number?" Whether you've been fostering for two years or thirty, it can be painful when your service ends without recognition. But what if our worth was never meant to depend on flowers, cards, or a thank you? Together we'll explore: ☕ Why so many foster carers feel forgotten when they leave ☕ How our identity can become tied to recognition from others ☕ What the Bible teaches about true value and purpose ☕ How to stop seeking validation from people and anchor your worth in God ☕ Why becoming the person who shows appreciation can transform the culture around us Instead of waiting for someone else to say "thank you", this episode challenges us to become people who recognise, encourage and honour those around us including social workers, managers, IROs, teachers and fellow foster carers. Because sustainable fostering isn't just about changing the system. It's about changing how we show up within it. 📖 Scriptures mentioned: • Colossians 3:23-24 • Isaiah 43:1 Explore the Sustainable Fostering Framework Helping foster carers build long-term emotional, relational, financial and spiritual sustainability. Visit:https://fosteringkingdoms.com/framework Have you ever felt overlooked or forgotten in your fostering journey?Or...Has someone made you feel genuinely valued?Share your experience in the comments. If this episode has encouraged you: • Subscribe for weekly fostering conversations • Like this video • Share it with another foster carer • Help us encourage more carers to put faith at the heart of fostering Fostering Kingdoms Helping foster carers put faith at the heart of fostering. Because sustainable fostering starts with a sustainable carer. #FosterCare #FosterCarer #FosterCarers #Fostering #FosteringUK #FosterParent #FosterParentSupport #FosterCareSupport #FosterCareTraining #FosterCarePodcast #FosterCarerWellbeing #FosterCareBurnout #LeavingFostering #FosterCareJourney #FosterCarerLife #FosterCareCommunity #ChristianFosterCarer #FaithAndFostering #ChristianPodcast #FaithBased #ChristianLeadership #IdentityInChrist #EmotionalWellbeing #MentalHealth #Resilience #SustainableFostering #FosteringKingdoms

  3. Aug 12

    It's Okay to Have a Meh Day | Finding Rest Without Feeling Guilty

    Not every day has to be productive. Not every day has to be full of energy, motivation or big breakthroughs. Sometimes we simply wake up feeling... meh. And that's okay. In this episode of Let's Talk About This, Jess shares an honest conversation about slowing down, giving yourself permission to rest and finding peace in the ordinary moments of life. Whether you're a foster carer, parent or simply carrying a lot right now, this episode is a gentle reminder that your worth isn't measured by how much you achieve in a day. God meets us in the quiet moments too. In this episode we explore: ✨ Why it's okay to have ordinary days ✨ Letting go of the pressure to always be productive ✨ Finding peace in the middle of busy seasons ✨ Why sustainable fostering requires intentional rest ✨ Learning from the example of Jesus, who often withdrew to pray and rest ✨ Trusting God even when life feels slow One of the biggest reminders in this episode is:"Rest isn't weakness. It's part of how God sustains us." 📖 Scriptures featured: Psalm 23:2–3 "He makes me lie down in green pastures, He leads me beside quiet waters, He refreshes my soul." Matthew 11:28–30 "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest." These verses remind us that God isn't asking us to hustle harder, He's inviting us to come to Him just as we are. 🌿 The Sustainable Fostering Framework™ If today's conversation resonated with you and you're ready to build emotional, relational and spiritual foundations that will help you sustain fostering for the long term, I'd love to invite you to explore the Sustainable Fostering Framework™. Designed specifically for foster carers, the Framework helps you move from simply surviving to fostering sustainably through faith, practical wisdom and intentional growth. 🎓 Includes a Certificate of Completion that can contribute towards your CPD and mandatory fostering training. 👉 Learn more at:fosteringkingdoms.com/framework 💬 I'd love to hear from you. When was the last time you gave yourself permission to simply rest without feeling guilty? Let me know in the comments below.If this episode encouraged you, please subscribe, leave a comment and share it with another foster carer who may need this reminder today. Because together, we're putting faith back at the heart of fostering. Topics covered • Foster Care • Foster Carer Wellbeing • Christian Foster Care • Faith & Fostering • Sustainable Fostering • Rest • Burnout Prevention • Psalm 23 • Matthew 11 • Christian Encouragement • Mental Wellbeing • Personal Growth • Self-Care • Foster Carer Support #FosterCare #FosterCarers #ChristianFostering #FaithAndFostering #SustainableFostering #Rest #BurnoutPrevention #Psalm23 #MentalWellbeing #ChristianEncouragement #FosteringKingdoms #UKFostering

  4. Aug 5

    The Decisions Every Foster Carer Makes Every Day | Building Sustainable Fostering

    Every decision you make today is shaping your tomorrow.As foster carers, we often think the biggest decisions are the ones that change our lives. Taking a placement. Changing agencies. Closing our home. Moving house.But what if it's actually the small decisions that shape who we become?In this episode of Let's Talk About This, Jess explores the power of everyday decision-making and how the small choices we make each day quietly build the future we're living towards.From hitting the snooze button to spending time with God, caring for ourselves, building healthy routines and choosing faith over fear, every decision creates a ripple effect—not only in our own lives but in the lives of the children we care for.In this episode we explore:✨ Why small decisions matter more than we realise✨ Living intentionally instead of on autopilot✨ How everyday choices shape long-term sustainability✨ Proverbs 16:9 and trusting God to establish your steps✨ Building daily rhythms that support foster care and family life✨ Making decisions from faith instead of fearOne of the biggest questions we ask in this episode is:"What decisions are you making today that are shaping the person you'll become tomorrow?"Because sustainable fostering isn't built through one big decision.It's built through thousands of faithful ones.📖 Scripture featured:Proverbs 16:9"In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps."God may not reveal the whole journey, but He faithfully guides the next step.🌿 The Sustainable Fostering Framework™If today's conversation challenged you to think differently about your daily habits, routines and long-term wellbeing, I'd love to invite you to explore the Sustainable Fostering Framework™.Designed specifically for foster carers, the Framework helps you build emotional, relational, financial and spiritual foundations so you can move from simply surviving to fostering sustainably.🎓 Includes a Certificate of Completion that can contribute towards your CPD and mandatory fostering training.👉 Learn more at:https://fosteringkingdoms.com/framework💬 I'd love to hear from you.What's one small decision you can make today that your future self will thank you for?Share your thoughts in the comments below.If this episode encouraged you, please subscribe, leave a comment and send it to another foster carer who could use this reminder today.Because together, we're building stronger carers, healthier homes and sustainable fostering.Topics coveredFoster CareFoster Carer SupportChristian Foster CareFaith & FosteringSustainable FosteringDecision MakingProverbs 16Personal GrowthChristian LeadershipDaily HabitsFoster Carer WellbeingSelf-CareIntentional LivingStewardship#FosterCare #FosterCarers #ChristianFostering #FaithAndFostering #SustainableFostering #DecisionMaking #PersonalGrowth #Proverbs16 #Stewardship #FosteringKingdoms #FosterCareUK #ChristianLeadership

  5. Jul 29

    Where Even Is "There"? | Trusting God in the Messy Middle

    Where even is "there"?We spend so much of our lives chasing the next destination."When the placement settles...""When life calms down...""When I have more confidence...""When I finally get there..."But what if there isn't the goal?In this episode of Together Through Fostering, Jess shares how God often works through the messy middle, not after we've arrived.Whether you're navigating a new foster placement, building new rhythms at home, stepping into a new calling, or simply trying to work out what God is asking of you next, this conversation is a reminder that obedience is rarely about having the whole blueprint.It's about taking the next faithful step.In this episode we explore:✨ Why we're always chasing "there"✨ Learning to embrace the messy middle✨ Trusting God's timing instead of our own✨ How small acts of obedience shape our future✨ Why sustainable growth happens one step at a time✨ What God can do through ordinary faithfulnessOne of the biggest questions we ask in this episode is:"Have I become so focused on where I'm going that I've stopped noticing what God is building today?"Because maybe the goal isn't arriving.Maybe the goal is becoming.Scripture featured:Zechariah 4:10"Do not despise these small beginnings..."Sometimes the smallest acts of obedience become the biggest turning points in our lives.The Sustainable Fostering Framework™If you're ready to build stronger emotional, relational and spiritual foundations for your fostering journey, I'd love to invite you to explore the Sustainable Fostering Framework™.Created to help foster carers move from simply surviving to fostering sustainably through faith, practical wisdom and intentional growth.👉 Learn more here:https://www.fosteringkingdoms.com/frameworkI'd love to hear from you.What is one small step you feel God is asking you to take right now?Share your thoughts in the comments below.If this episode encouraged you, please subscribe, leave a comment and send it to another foster carer who may need this reminder today.Topics covered• Foster Care • Christian Foster Care • Faith & Fostering • Sustainable Fostering • Obedience • Personal Growth • Spiritual Growth • Trusting God • Calling • Foster Carer Wellbeing • Christian Encouragement • Leadership • Stewardship #FosterCare #FaithAndFostering #ChristianFostering #SustainableFostering #TrustGod #Obedience #Calling #FosterCarers #PersonalGrowth #FosteringKingdoms #ChristianEncouragement #Stewardship

  6. Jul 22

    What Children Remember Most | Why the Little Things Matter in Foster Care

    You are more impactful than you realise.As foster carers, it's easy to believe that making a difference requires a huge breakthrough moment. But what if the greatest impact you have is found in the ordinary, everyday moments?In this episode of Let's Talk About This, Jess shares why the small things—bedtime stories, birthday celebrations, favourite snacks, hugs and simply showing up, often become the memories children carry with them for a lifetime.If you've ever questioned whether you're making a difference, this conversation is a reminder that your presence, your consistency and your love matter more than you know.In this episode we explore:✨ Why children remember how they felt more than what was said✨ How your everyday actions shape the children in your care✨ The lasting impact of consistency and emotional safety✨ Why healing, faith and personal growth influence your fostering journey✨ How small moments become lifelong memories✨ Building a legacy through faithful, everyday parentingOne of the biggest questions we ask in this episode is:"If one child remembered just one thing about living in your home, what would you hope it would be?"It's a simple question but one that has the power to shape the way we show up every single day.The Sustainable Fostering Framework™If you're ready to build a fostering journey that is emotionally, relationally and spiritually sustainable, I'd love to invite you to explore the Sustainable Fostering Framework™.Created to help foster carers strengthen the foundations that matter most, this training equips you to care for children without losing yourself in the process.👉 Learn more here:https://www.fosteringkingdoms.com/frameworkI'd love to hear from you.What's one small thing you hope the children in your care will always remember about your home?Share your thoughts in the comments below.If this episode encouraged you, please subscribe, leave a comment, and share it with another foster carer who needs this reminder today.Topics covered:Foster CareFoster Carer SupportUK FosteringChristian Foster CareTrauma-Informed ParentingFoster Carer WellbeingSustainable FosteringFaith & FosteringParenting Through TraumaEmotional RegulationAttachmentChild DevelopmentPersonal GrowthFoster Carer Training#FosterCare #FosterCarers #Fostering #ChristianFostering #FaithAndFostering #SustainableFostering #TraumaInformed #Parenting #Attachment #EmotionalWellbeing #FosteringKingdoms #UKFostering

  7. Jul 15

    Why Blaming the Fostering System Is Keeping You Stuck

    The fostering system may be broken... but that doesn't mean you have to be.If you've ever felt frustrated by delays, changing social workers, difficult decisions or the challenges of navigating the foster care system, this episode is for you.In this honest conversation, Jess shares why constantly blaming the system can leave us feeling powerless and how taking back responsibility for the things we can influence transforms not only our fostering journey but the atmosphere within our homes.This isn't about ignoring the problems or pretending the system is perfect. It's about choosing to build resilience, steward what God has placed in your hands, and become the kind of foster carer who can sustain fostering for the long term.In this episode we discuss:✨ Why the fostering system isn't perfect and never has been✨ The difference between influence and control✨ How to stop giving your peace away to broken systems✨ Why stewardship is one of the greatest leadership skills a foster carer can develop✨ Building a sustainable home, even when circumstances aren't ideal✨ Taking radical responsibility without carrying unnecessary guiltOne of the biggest questions we ask in this episode is:"If the system never changed... who would you still choose to become?"Because sustainable fostering isn't built on perfect circumstances.It's built on becoming the kind of foster carer who continues to grow, lead with love and steward their home well even when the system around them feels broken.Want to build a more sustainable approach to fostering?The Sustainable Fostering Framework™ is designed to help foster carers strengthen their emotional, relational, financial and spiritual foundations so they can care for children without losing themselves in the process.👉 Learn more here:https://www.fosteringkingdoms.com/frameworkI'd love to hear from you.Topics covered:Foster CareFoster Carer SupportUK FosteringChristian Foster CareSustainable FosteringFoster Carer WellbeingBurnout PreventionTrauma-Informed CareFaith & FosteringEmotional ResilienceLeadershipStewardshipParentingPersonal Growth#FosterCare #Fostering #FosterCarers #ChristianFostering #FaithAndFostering #SustainableFostering #TraumaInformed #FosterCareUK #EmotionalResilience #Stewardship #FosteringKingdoms #BurnoutPreventionWhat has helped you stay grounded when the fostering system has felt overwhelming?Share your thoughts in the comments below.If this episode encouraged you, please subscribe, leave a comment, and share it with another foster carer who may need this reminder today.

  8. Jul 14

    How Your Healing Impacts the Children in Your Care | Foster Care & Trauma

    Your healing matters more than you realise.As foster carers, parents and caregivers, we spend so much time focusing on the children in our care that we often forget to care for ourselves.But what if one of the greatest gifts we can give our children is our own healing?In this episode of Let's Talk About This, Jess explores how our past experiences, emotional triggers and unhealed wounds can quietly shape the atmosphere of our homes. From parenting toddlers and teenagers to supporting children who have experienced trauma, this conversation is an honest reminder that children don't just listen to what we say, they learn from how we respond.If you've ever found yourself reacting in ways you wish you hadn't, feeling overwhelmed, or wondering how to become a more sustainable foster carer, this episode is for you.In this episode we cover:✨ Why children mirror our emotional responses✨ How unhealed trauma can show up in everyday parenting✨ Why healing isn't selfish, it's part of caring for children✨ The ripple effect of a regulated, emotionally healthy home✨ How faith and personal growth help build sustainable fosteringAt Fostering Kingdoms, we believe sustainable fostering starts with a sustainable carer. Our mission is to help foster carers put faith back at the heart of fostering through practical encouragement, biblical wisdom and CPD training.👇 We'd love to hear from you.What's one area of healing you've recognised in yourself that's helping you become a stronger parent or foster carer?Leave a comment below.Learn more about the Sustainable Fostering Framework™Helping foster carers build emotional, relational, financial and spiritual foundations for long-term sustainability.https://www.fosteringkingdoms.com/sustainable-fostering-frameworkSubscribe for more conversations on:• Foster Care• Christian Foster Care• Trauma-Informed Parenting• Faith & Fostering• Emotional Wellbeing• Burnout Prevention• Sustainable Fostering• Foster Carer Training• Parenting Through Trauma• Christian Parenting#Fostering #FosterCare #FosterCarers #TraumaInformed #ChristianParenting #FaithAndFostering #FosteringKingdoms #SustainableFostering #Healing #Parenting #TraumaHealing #UKFostering

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Fostering Kingdoms is a faith-based podcast walking alongside UK foster carers with encouragement, gentle guidance, and practical CPD support. Each episode nurtures emotional wellbeing, resilience, and sustainable fostering through a Kingdom lens. This space exists to strengthen your heart, your home, and your calling. Putting care back into the carers so you can continue on your journey as a foster carer and with God at the centre of it all.

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