Foster carers are encouraging others to consider fostering a child and create lasting connections in Blaenau Gwent.
Foster Care Fortnight, the biggest fostering awareness campaign of the year, takes place between May 12 and May 25 this year, with this year’s theme celebrating the power of relationships.
Whether it’s the bond between a carer and a child, the relationship created with supportive social workers, or the friendships built with other foster carers in a community, strong relationships are the golden thread that run through all fostering stories.
In Wales, there are more than 7,000 children in care, but only 3,800 foster families. Foster Wales is aiming to recruit an additional 800 carers by 2026.
Liz and Joe shared their story of the lasting relationships they’ve formed as a result of fostering through Foster Wales Blaenau Gwent.
Liz and Joe enjoy fostering older children and teenagers. They feel like fostering this age group has worked out very well for them and express regret that there are not enough foster carers who would like to foster teens.
Liz Says: “I’ve been fostering for over 18 years and it’s just something I always wanted to do. I don’t know why; I think I just enjoy being a mum.”
“We didn’t specifically choose to foster teenagers; it just happened, but it really worked out for us. We have a boy who is now 17 and has lived with us since he was 4; we’ve seen him through all stages of his life so far. He is our boy and like a son to us. But we also have a teenage girl, who came to us when she was 12.”
“When you see a change in them and see them do well, this is where you feel rewarded for what you do.”
Foster Wales is in desperate need to recruit more foster carers for children in Wales, who need safety and a supportive, loving environment. Liz and Joe encourage more people to come through and enquire about fostering with the local authority Foster Wales team.
To find out more about becoming a foster carer in Blaenau Gwent visit contact us - foster wales blaenau gwent
Your local Foster Wales Blaenau Gwent team will be busy out in the community all week doing leaflet drops, as well as a Foster Carer Appreciation Event, a BBQ in the park for our families with Animals Interactive, Information stall at Blaenau Gwent Pride Event and doing a ‘Lap the Lake’ walk to raise awareness of fostering.