Posted on: Friday 23 May 2025
Young people have been sharing the life-changing impact fostering has had on their lives as part of this year's Foster Care Fortnight.
Among them is Chelsea, a 20-year-old women from Cwmbran, who is using her voice to highlight the life-changing impact of her foster carers, Steve and Sarah.
Chelsea, who entered the care system in 2011, experienced several different foster placements before finding a lasting home with Steve and Sarah’s family in 2018.
It was there, she says, that she truly felt what it meant to belong.
“I remember Sarah taking me shopping and helping me pick out my first properly fitted pair of jeans,”
“It might sound small, but it made me feel special – like I was someone’s daughter, even if not by blood. It was just a warm and happy feeling.”
Chelsea stayed with Steve and Sarah until 2021, when she moved into semi-independent living. She credits their unwavering support and guidance with helping her grow into the confident young woman she is today.
“The time and attention they gave me – teaching me right from wrong, listening to me, making me feel part of the family – it literally transformed my life. I wouldn’t be where I am today without them.”
Now, Chelsea is encouraging others to consider fostering and to understand the profound difference it can make.
“Even though I’ve experienced the care system myself, I can’t wait for the day I become a foster carer. If you’re thinking about fostering — go for it. You could change a life, just like someone once changed mine."
This year’s Foster Care Fortnight theme, “The Power of Relationships,” celebrates the bonds that form between foster carers, children, social workers, and the wider fostering community. These relationships are the golden thread that runs through every fostering journey.
In Wales, over 7,000 children are currently in care, but there are only around 3,800 foster families. Foster Wales is aiming to recruit an additional 800 foster carers by 2026 to ensure more children like Chelsea can experience the stability and love of a nurturing home.
To learn more about becoming a foster carer in Wales, visit: fosterwales.torfaen.gov.uk
Alternatively, you can meet your local Foster Wales Torfaen team on the last Friday of every month at Cwmbran Library, from 10am to 2pm.