Foster Care Fortnight - A Foster Carer's Point Of View

In celebration of Foster Care Fortnight 2023, we spoke with Calon Cymru Foster Carer Frances, who gave us an insight into her journey to become a foster carer along with some great advice to anyone considering a career in fostering.

How long have you been a foster carer?

To date 13 years.

Why did you want to become a foster carer?

I had wanted to become a foster carer for many years before I enquired. My daughter had completed her Teachers Training at University and with her encouragement, I made the application to foster. Although it was daunting, I didn’t go into it blindly, as I had worked within the social care sector for many years previously so had a good idea of the challenges I could face. One of the main reasons I wanted to move into fostering was because I felt very strongly that I could provide and positive and nurtured life this to any child or children I would care for.

This year’s theme for Foster Care Fortnight is ‘Fostering Communities’, what does this mean to you?

To me, Fostering Communities means a couple of different things:

• To provide a caring and loving environment to any child who needs support to grow, learn, be valued, and feel happy and safe.
• To be supported by the remit of the fostering sector to enable me to fully provide all aspects of caring. This includes training, support, and information to enable me to provide the best of me that I can possibly give.

If you could give advice to someone interested in becoming a foster carer, what would it be?

Well, it’s certainly not just about “a spare room”. Indeed, it’s about opening your heart and home to a vulnerable child who may have various issues and experiences within their life and to have patience and understanding of their needs. Many may have complex needs, and the home environment may need some changes to allow a child to feel safe. It comes with many challenges, but a good support system from the fostering agency is a definite “must”.

Is there anything else you’d like to say?

Fostering can be a rewarding profession with many great times. However, it can come with many challenges, and it is important to have an open mind (and heart) whist considering this position.

If you’re ready to open your mind and heart, enquire today.