Finding family at a local support group

"I don't know where I'd be without the support of other caregivers," says Sue, a caregiver for 20 years who helps to run a local support group in Tauranga. "You become like a big extended family."

Angela agrees that she has met some of her best friends through her support group and it has helped her become an even better caregiver. "I have a great friend I met through the group and she'll ring and say, 'We need to get out of the house, let's go to the pool', - you're more likely to do these fun activities if you have someone else motivating you.

Caregivers can feel isolated, but support groups allow you to plug into a wealth of knowledge and practical help - with everything from babysitting emergencies to hand-me-down clothes.

A typical local group will meet around once a month for morning tea and will often have a guest speaker or training, as well as a good catch-up. Groups have also organised pamper days, including a bouncy castle for the kids, mystery farm trips and mid-winter Christmas parties.

 "It's so important to have people who understand how your foster child operates and don't take it personally if they get a bit aggressive, says Angela. "But a foster family also shares your joy, and when something happens like you get permanency, you understand all the hard work and can celebrate the joy together."