WHEN people think about children and young people being taken into foster care, they usually think of violent homes and mistreatment. But they rarely consider how illness can rip a family apart.

Becky, 26, from Redditch, who does not want to be identified, was just 15 when circumstances led her and her younger sister into foster care.

Their mother was very ill and as time passed, her ability to properly look after her daughters diminished.

Despite what would be a terrifying prospect for most, Becky faced moving to a foster home with a courage which belied her age.

"I didn't feel scared about going into foster care," said Becky. "My mum had a long-term illness and I knew what would have to happen. I just accepted it."

Becky and her sister moved in with Redditch foster mum Heather Griffin. Although it is not always possible to place siblings together in a foster home, the county council's fostering team do their utmost to try not to split the family unit any more than it already has been.

Becky stayed with Heather for two and a half years and then moved into a young women's hostel.

After this, she moved into a flat in Winyates and started a series of computer courses to further her education.

Becky said: "I didn't really achieve at school. I don't know whether this was down to my home situation or whether I just refused to motivate myself.

"But after leaving school, I have taken several computer courses and I'm now enjoying the part-time work I do."

She added: "I've never let myself think about how different my life would have been and how things may have worked out if I had not been fostered.

"My sister and I are now both doing well."