Posted on: Friday 8 May 2026
The first time a child laughs, opens up about their day, asks to watch a film; these are moments that many might take for granted, but for foster carers in Torfaen, they symbolise one thing, a breakthrough.
Children who have experienced trauma often develop ways of protecting themselves. This might include behaviour such as anxiety, emotional shutdown, intense reactions or difficulty following rules.
A national survey commissioned by Foster Wales has found around 80% of carers have supported children who displayed behaviour like this.
While these challenges can be tough, half of foster carers surveyed also said they noticed a meaningful breakthrough within the first six months - often centred around small moments of connection.
For children in care, it means they have made progress, they have started to feel safe, they have started to heal, to feel loved and to feel supported following childhood trauma.
Lorna from Blaenavon, is one of 120 foster carers who responded to the Foster Wales survey.
She said: “Fostering isn’t always sunshine and easy days. It can be tough, emotional and unpredictable. But it’s in the ordinary moments that it truly matters – the walks, the fresh air, the quiet time together. Watching a child slowly feel safe, grow in confidence and begin to thrive - that’s what makes it all worthwhile.”
After some experience and receiving support and professional guidance, 93% of carers surveyed said they are now confident responding to trauma‑related behaviour.
The findings are released ahead of Foster Care Fortnight, the UK’s largest annual campaign to raise awareness of fostering, which starts on Monday 11 May.
This year’s theme, ‘This is Fostering’, shines a spotlight on the real experiences of foster carers and the vital role they play in helping children feel safe.
Jason O’Brien, Strategic Director at Torfaen Council, said: “Here at Foster Wales Torfaen we are extremely proud of our foster carers. We are pleased that they are accessing the resources that are available to them, and these are having a positive impact on the children in their care when supporting complex issues like childhood trauma.
“We are committed to supporting our foster carers through the highs and the lows of fostering, and this survey shows just how important and valued that local support is.”
To find out more about events taking place across foster care fortnight, or to become a local authority foster carer, visit https://fosterwales.torfaen.gov.uk/