A BEARDED biker and former nightclub bouncer from the West Midlands is fronting a new push to challenge stereotypes about who can foster.
Tim Jarvis, 48, and his wife Claire, 37, have been fostering with FCA West Midlands for 12 years and say people should not rule themselves out because they do not fit the 'sweet older lady called Margaret' image many still associate with foster parents.
"I’m not your average foster parent because I have a beard, love motorbikes and used to be a security guard," said Mr Jarvis.
"We didn’t have any children of our own before fostering either.
"My first child was a foster child – she was a bridesmaid at our wedding and even came on our ‘family moon’."
The couple now have a biological son, have adopted one of the children they fostered, and are caring for a teenager, even converting their garage to make more space.
They initially planned to foster only teenagers but agreed to take an emergency baby placement – and later adopted her.
"At the end of the day, I don’t care how old the kid is; I just want to change a life," Mr Jarvis said.
He admits his appearance can be daunting at first.
"When our most recent foster daughter arrived she was definitely a bit intimidated by me.
"But now we know each other and she’s just part of the family."
With around 39,000 children entering care each year and a shortage of more than 6,000 foster parents nationwide, Mr Jarvis is urging others to step forward.
"Just do it.
"What have you got to lose?
"It is the most rewarding thing I’ve ever done," he said.
Anyone over 21 with a spare bedroom and the right to live and work in the UK is eligible to foster. Call 0800 023 4561 or visit thefca.co.uk to find out more.
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