People who work are being encouraged to consider fostering as part of a new Foster Wales campaign challenging common myths about becoming a foster carer.
Among those backing the campaign are Darren and Emma, from Cwmbran, who have balanced fostering alongside their careers for 3 years.
Nearly 40 per cent of foster carers across Wales combine fostering with work. Many say the skills they use every day in their jobs help them support children and young people at home.
Darren, who is a Senior Account Manager for Datacolor, said: "The skills you use at work, such as problem-solving, planning and juggling logistics, translate naturally into fostering.
"Fostering has become part of our family life. With the right support, we've been able to balance it alongside our careers."
The campaign challenges the misconception that people must give up work to foster. In reality, many local authority foster carers work in education, healthcare, social care, emergency services and hospitality.
Foster Wales Torfaen works closely with carers to identify fostering opportunities that fit around employment, family life and existing commitments.
Emma, an Early Years manager at Torfaen Council, added: "We have never felt that we had to choose between our careers and fostering.
"We've been supported to make both work. Having an understanding employer and a supportive fostering team makes a huge difference.
The campaign, which starts on Monday, is also encouraging businesses and organisations to become Fostering Friendly Employers.
The national scheme supports employees who foster or are considering fostering by helping create a workplace culture that understands the role foster carers play.
Jason O'Brien, Strategic Director for Children and Family Services at Torfaen Council, said:
"One of the biggest myths about fostering is that people have to choose between their career and becoming a foster carer. The reality is that many people successfully combine fostering with employment, and we work closely with every foster family to understand their circumstances, and availability.
"We recognise the valuable skills people develop throughout their careers and how those experiences can benefit children and young people.
"Whether someone works full-time, part-time or flexibly, there may be a fostering opportunity that suits their lifestyle. Our role is to help carers find the right opportunity and provide the support they need to succeed."
For more information about fostering with Foster Wales Torfaen or Fostering Friendly Employers Network, visit: https://torfaen.fosterwales.gov.wales/