Parent and Child fostering as told by foster carers

Parent and Child fostering is a unique type of fostering where a parent, or parents learn how to look after their baby over an initial 12-week period with the help and support of a foster carer.  

The role of a foster carer is to support parent(s) in looking after their baby by mentoring them and improving their confidence. Parents who enter into a parent and child placement may not have experienced a positive family life or learnt the skills to parent so they may find it challenging to live with rules and boundaries or accept advice from others.

Life as a parent and child foster carer can be varied, tiring and emotional, but it can also be hugely rewarding and enriching, where you can help break the cycle of neglect. Don’t just take our word for it, here are some of the things that Calon Cymru Parent and Child foster carers say when they reflect on their role...

Why they chose to foster Parent and Child

“We wanted to give parents the opportunity to stay with their babies in a safe environment, where they can learn and grow and develop their skills as parents and potentially change the future for both their children and themselves.” – Sharon and Lloyd

“We had our oldest son when we were very young and realised that being a parent is probably one of the hardest jobs in the world, and we had a lot of help and support! We felt that must be so challenging for those who don’t have that support so wanted to be there to help those parents.” – Lindzi and Dave

“Throughout our lives and careers, we’ve dealt with people of all backgrounds and ages, as well as people with disabilities. We felt this gave us the skills to succeed in helping people to achieve their goals, and provide them with support to be the best they can.” – Dai and Sue

The best things about fostering a Parent and Child

“From watching a parent grow in confidence and start making the right choices for themselves and their children, to supporting a parent to bring about life changes that enable them to have their child stay with them. Sharing my home with a family has been a really positive experience, and the gratitude the parents show when leaving makes you feel proud of the work you have done to support them.” - Linda

“Seeing the mum develop and flourish in our care, watching the babies grow and be healthy and loved, it makes you feel warm inside. We’ve had a blast, from going out with the mums to the gym or going shopping, it's been like having another family member and friend, and the babies are beautiful!” – Lindzi and Dave

Advice for others thinking about fostering a Parent and Child

“It’s important to keep an open mind and expect the unexpected, you will have days where you are celebrating victories, there will be days when you just want to cry and there will be days when you are so proud that you will just want to explode.” – Sharon and Lloyd

“We would 100% recommend fostering. We love the difference we make to each placement and the experiences that they bring into our lives. If you are thinking about it, make the call to Calon Cymru.” – Dai and Sue.

“Be confident in your own abilities to support a parent or child from your own life experiences but be prepared to ask for support from the professionals as needed. Access all the training available, seek support during the placement, and use your supervision sessions with your social worker to reflect on the process. I wish I had started fostering earlier!” – Linda

“We highly recommend it, it’s the best thing in the world. Family wise, nothing has changed, your family just becomes bigger. We only wish we’d done it sooner.” - Lindzi and Dave