Posted on: Wednesday 15 May 2024
A foster family from Pontypool have spoken of the moment they realised they were making a positive difference to a young person’s life.
Kate and Gareth, who have three children of their own, have been fostering since October 2020, providing placements for two children, as well as respite and day care for seven children, including caring for babies in hospital.
They are among a number of foster carers who have shared their favourite fostering moments, as part of new Foster Wales campaign this Foster Care Fortnight, 13 – 26 May.
One of their cherished fostering moments is when they taught one of their foster children how to ride a bike for the first time.
Kate said: “We might not be blood family, but we will always be a family. The joy and pride on her face when she overcame this achievement was priceless.
“We love fostering and making memories together and although the children move on, we always talk about them, and they remain in our hearts.”
Kate and Gareth also enjoy taking part in family activities with their children and foster children, like pumpkin carving at Halloween which one of their foster children had never done before.
There are around 160 local authority foster carers in Torfaen, and around 2,700 in Wales.
Foster Wales has set an ambitious goal to recruit over 800 new foster families by 2026.
The Fostering Moments campaign looks to capture how anyone can create lasting memories, build confidence, and provide a safe and loving environment for children and young people in need.
These moments, both big and small, will be shared on the council’s social media channels, in hope of inspiring others to step forward and make a difference.
A series of drop in events have also set up for prospective foster carers throughout Foster Care Fortnight, find out more here.
Jason O’Brien, Strategic Director for Children and Family Services at Torfaen Council, said: “Our local authority fostering community has made and keeps on making a tremendous impact on our most vulnerable children’s lives, but we need more caring individuals to join us.
“Whether it’s a comforting bedtime story, a shared laugh, or a supportive hug, every moment counts. If you’re considering fostering, I encourage you to enquire today.”
To find out more about becoming a foster carer in Torfaen, visit fosterwales.torfaen.gov.uk