In this heartfelt episode of Community Matters, Nicky Sloan is joined by Christine Wilde, an experienced Foster Carer with CareSouth, a community-based organisation that provides a range of services including Aunties & Uncles, Family Connections and youth and disability support services that support children, young people and families.

Drawing on her experience caring for 19 children over the years, Christine shares the realities of foster care, from the challenges children face when they first enter care to the incredible moments of watching them rebuild their confidence and simply enjoy being children again.

With compassion and honesty, Christine reflects on the importance of community in helping children and families through difficult times. She reminds us that every child's journey is unique and highlights how kindness, stability and supportive relationships can make a lasting difference in a child's life. She discusses the importance of routine, consistency, empathy and building trusting relationships, while reflecting on the rewarding experience of helping children heal and break the cycle of trauma.

The conversation also highlights the vital role caseworkers play in supporting both children and carers, the different ways people can become involved in foster care, and how others in the community can make a meaningful difference by supporting children and foster families in their community.

This is an inspiring conversation about resilience, hope and the extraordinary impact that ordinary people and supportive communities can have when they simply show up for a child in need.