Fostering Siblings, The Importance of Keeping Brothers and Sisters Together

At Calon Cymru Fostering, we aim to keep siblings together when appropriate.

When children and young people go into foster care, they can encounter a lot of change and transition. If it is possible to do so, keeping siblings together can provide them with the stability, support, and love they need to adjust to their new surroundings and thrive.  

There is an ongoing need for foster carers to provide homes for sibling groups across Wales. In this blog we will explore the importance of fostering siblings, as well as learning more about how Calon Cymru Fostering provides support to their foster carers.

The Importance of Fostering Siblings

When a child goes into foster care, it can bring a lot of emotions. Going through this experience with a sibling can be comforting, and their bond can be crucial throughout difficult times. When placed together, siblings can rely on each other for emotional support, provide a sense of security, and help each other navigate any difficulties.

Additionally, siblings often share a unique history and understanding that can help them adjust to their new environment. Research also shows that children who maintain close relationships with their siblings can develop better social skills, emotional resilience, and a sense of belonging.

“We felt like siblings needed to stay together, particularly when coming into somebody's home that they’ve never been into before, as that can be daunting for any child. Plus, they’re blood family, and we felt it was really important that they stayed together and grew up together.” – Calon Cymru Foster Carer, Terry

Support from Calon Cymru Fostering 

At Calon Cymru Fostering, we are committed to providing ongoing support to all our foster carers, no matter how experienced they are. We offer comprehensive, tailored training to all foster carers, with training sessions taking place face to face in our offices in Cardiff and Carmarthen, as well as online.

All Calon Cymru foster carers work alongside their dedicated Supervising Social Worker, who provides them with continuous support and guidance. Our foster carers also receive 24/7 on call support, where a Social Worker and manager from their locally based team are available to help and offer advice throughout the day and night.

Our foster carers are also connected to each other through our buddy scheme, locally based support groups, and carer connect which are community activities organised and run by other foster carers.

“We are always fully supported, if it’s not our own Supervising Social Worker there’s always somebody there 24/7. Either at the end of the phone, or there’s never an issue with anyone coming out.”- Calon Cymru Foster Carers, Michelle & Andrew.

The Journey of Fostering Siblings 

Fostering siblings can be hugely rewarding and filled with love, growth, and the opportunity to make a profound difference in the lives of children and young people. By choosing to foster siblings, you have an opportunity to keep bonds tight, whilst giving each child the opportunity to flourish.

If you’re considering fostering siblings or would like to learn more about any other types of fostering, please contact Calon Cymru Fostering.