The Support System for Foster Carers - You’re Not Alone

The Support System for Foster Carers - You’re Not Alone

When you become a foster carer with Calon Cymru, you’re never alone. Fostering is a rewarding but often challenging journey, and we understand that having a solid support system is essential for success. At Calon Cymru Fostering, we are committed to providing you with the resources, guidance, and community support you need to navigate the complexities of fostering.

Your Supervising Social Worker

One of the first points of contact you will have as a foster carer is your assigned Supervising Social Worker. This dedicated professional plays a crucial role in your fostering experience and serves as your primary source of support.

Your Supervising Social Worker is there to provide tailored advice and guidance, whether you have questions about specific situations, need help with a child’s behaviour, or want to discuss your emotional well-being, they are just a phone call away.

You’ll have regular meetings with your Supervising Social Worker to discuss your progress, address any concerns, and reflect on the experiences you’re having with the child in your care. These check-ins are an opportunity to ensure that both you and the child are doing well.

In moments of crisis or when you encounter challenging situations, your Supervising Social Worker is there to provide immediate support and solutions. Knowing you have someone to turn to can make all the difference during difficult times.

As well as being there as crucial support your Supervising Social Worker will help you identify any training needs you may have and guide you towards relevant training sessions. At Calon Cymru, we offer a variety of training programs designed to enhance your skills and knowledge as a foster carer to make sure you feel confident and supported to undertake your role.

Monthly Support Groups

In addition to your Supervising Social Worker, we also host monthly support groups for foster carers. These gatherings provide a welcoming environment where you can connect with others who understand the unique challenges and joys of fostering.

Fostering can sometimes feel isolating, especially if you don’t have prior experience or a strong support network. Joining a support group allows you to meet other foster carers, share your experiences, and form meaningful connections. You’ll quickly discover that you are not alone in your journey.

Each foster carer brings their own experiences and insights to the table. Support groups are an excellent opportunity to exchange ideas, discuss challenges, and learn from one another. Hearing how others have navigated similar situations can provide valuable strategies and encouragement.

Fostering can be an emotional rollercoaster, and it’s essential to have a safe space to express your feelings. Support groups provide an environment where you can openly discuss your challenges, seek advice, and receive encouragement from fellow carers who truly understand your journey.

Additional Resources

At Calon Cymru, we are committed to ensuring that you have access to a wide range of resources to support your fostering journey.

Our website offers a wealth of information, including articles, guidelines, and helpful resources tailored to foster carers. You can access these materials at any time to find answers to your questions.

We understand that fostering doesn’t adhere to a 9-to-5 schedule. That’s why we offer 24/7 support for our foster carers. If you encounter a situation that requires immediate assistance, you can reach out to our on-call social workers for help.

At Calon Cymru Fostering, we recognise that fostering can be a challenging journey, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. With the support of your Supervising Social Worker, the camaraderie of fellow foster carers and access to additional resources, you will have the tools you need to thrive as a foster carer.