North Yorkshire man lived in foster care for 13 years

Now 23, the North Yorkshire man is urging families to open their doors to children who need the same warmth, stability and belonging he found with his foster carers.

Ashley spent 13 years in foster care from the age of eight, and says the support he received changed his life — inspiring him to help others find the same sense of family he was given.

Ashley says he is “one of the lucky ones”, thanks to the stability and love he received with his final foster parents Diane and Stuart Kelly from Harrogate.

Although Ashley lived with them for only four years, he describes the home as “like a family” and he remains in close contact with them even today.

In fact, in his spare time he helps care for their current children when they go away, acting as a connected carer.

Ashley with his final foster parents Diane and Stuart Kelly from Harrogate (Image: NORTH YORKSHIRE COUNCIL)

Ashley said: “They offered a warm and loving home where I felt belonged.

“Diane and Stuart have done a lot for me emotionally and financially too.

“They loaned me money to buy my first car which was a huge help.

“However, the most impactful thing they did was love me as their own.

“Feeling accepted and at home is what helps build trust.”

The Harrogate couple fostered Ashley for four years.

Though he lived with three families during his time in care, he credits Diane and Stuart for giving him a true sense of belonging.

He remains close to them and now helps look after their current children when they are away.

Ashley said: “Carers need to be willing to adjust to the child and the situation.

“Truly caring and treating a young person as part of the family makes all the difference.”

Now living in York, he works in business support within social care and is studying children, young people and society at university.

He hopes to become a social worker.

Janet Sanderson, North Yorkshire Council’s executive member for children and families, said: “We are incredibly proud of Ashley and everything he has achieved.

“His resilience, determination and commitment to improving the lives of others is truly inspiring.”

As of September last year, along with families of local foster carers, North Yorkshire Council provided loving homes for 438 children and there is an urgent need for more local foster families to come forward.

The scheme, Fostering North Yorkshire, is open to single people, couples, renters, and homeowners from all backgrounds.