Lynn's Story

Lynn's Story

Lynn Dauson with daughter Cheryl and council staff

Lynn Dauson reflects on fostering lifelong bonds 

As Lynn Dauson retired from her time as a foster carer for Wigan Council, she reflected on a remarkable career, dedicated to fostering babies. For over 15 years, Lynn had been more than just a temporary guardian, she had created lasting bonds and made a long-term impact on young lives across the borough.

“I started fostering 15 and a half years ago,” she recalled. “I decided to look into it when my two children left home. Fostering was something I thought of doing for some time, but as I was single, I thought I couldn’t do it. Later, I found out you can - whether you’re single or married.”

Encouraged by friends and family, Lynn attended information evenings and took part in training sessions before being approved. This marked the start of a fostering career that has seen her look after more than 35 children, with a special focus on newborns. “I always only wanted to look after babies. To date, I’ve had 19 newborn babies,” she continued.

“I absolutely loved my job. It’s the longest job I’ve had and I would say to anyone if you’re thinking about fostering, go for it.”

Lynn’s dedication to fostering not only provided a safe and nurturing environment for many children but has also led to lasting relationships with the families who adopt them. “I understand that once the adoptive families leave my house with the baby, they don’t have to keep in touch, but they are all so happy to and to give me updates and photos. Sometimes they even come to see me at my house.”

Lynn cherished these moments and the joy of seeing the children grow in their new homes. “A lot of people say, ‘How do you do it, to have a baby from newborn and have them for six to 12 months - how do I let them go?’ I always say my plan was never to be a long-term carer or to adopt. It was always to look after a baby or child until it is time for them to move on. I also get to see the joy on the adopters’ faces when they come to collect a baby, it is lovely. These are people getting a baby they may have wanted for years but have not been able to have one.

“The experience with Wigan Council has been very, very good, particularly with the social workers and support workers. I felt fully supported and if ever you feel on your own, you could phone the social worker or support worker, and hopefully, they could help you out.”

It is this support that was crucial in helping Lynn throughout her fostering journey. “Now I have a big extended family,” she added. “It is the best job I ever had. I only wish I’d have done it 10 years earlier.”

If you are interested in finding out more about fostering in Wigan, complete our online enquiry form or call 0300 303 0321 .