Meet one of Foster Wales Cardiff’s longest-serving foster carers
For nearly 35 years, Jan, Gary and their family have opened their home—and their hearts—to babies across Cardiff. With 70 children cared for and 65 transitioned into loving adoptive families, their story is one of commitment, stability, and the belief that every child deserves the very best start in life.
This is their journey.
starting out: “we always knew fostering was something we wanted to do”
Before she was married, Jan always worked with children. Caring came naturally to her, and fostering felt like the path her family was always meant to take.
“We had five children of our own and adopted one. We waited until our youngest was 18 months old and then started fostering. We wanted to give other children the same childhood our own had.”
From the beginning, Jan gravitated towards caring for babies—usually newborn to two years old. It’s where her strengths, patience, and calm presence shine.
a life-changing role
Even though Jan knew fostering would be life changing, the reality still hit her when the first baby arrived at her home.
“You have the realisation that you’re responsible for someone else’s child. It’s a huge responsibility.”
Over the decades, Jan has seen the landscape of fostering change—different challenges, different circumstances, but always the same commitment to giving every child safety, love, and consistency.
caring for 70 babies—and keeping in touch
Jan has cared for around 70 children, with 65 moving on to adoption and others returning home to their birth families.
She keeps in touch with many of the families — receiving photos, meeting up, and even attending weddings of children she once cared for as newborns.
For Jan, the best outcome is always what’s right for the child—whether that’s going home or moving on to a forever family.
“every baby is different”—and every day brings something new
From hospital visits to daily routines, Jan’s focus is always on giving each baby the best possible start.
“I visit a lot of babies at the hospital and stay with them until they can be discharged. Babies have contact three times a week with birth families. You’ve got to have empathy—some parents are young or haven’t had the best start in life themselves.”
Her compassion extends to everyone involved. One young birth mum even asked Jan if she could live with her too.
support, friendship & the cardiff community
After nearly 35 years, one thing has remained constant: her support system.
“We have great support from Foster Wales Cardiff and other foster carers. Some have been with us through it all.”
And she’s always fostered with the local authority.
“I believe Cardiff children should be cared for by Cardiff carers.”
helping babies transition to adoption
Supporting babies into their adoptive families is one of Jan’s greatest joys.
“The transition usually takes 6–7 days. I love meeting adopters and watching their confidence grow. By the end of the week, they do most of the care. It’s lovely seeing the bond forming.”
The whole family — including grandchildren — says goodbye in the days leading up to the move. On the day itself, Jan makes sure it’s a happy occasion.
“This is the adopter’s day.”
Any tears are saved for private moments.
“We didn’t go into fostering to keep the babies. We went into it to give them the best outcome.”
Experience has helped Jan cope, but the emotion never disappears — nor does the joy.
family life & daily routines
Fostering has shaped not only Jan’s life but her whole family’s.
Her grandchildren also welcome every baby with love and understanding.
A typical week involves:
- Caring for the baby’s daily needs
- Birth family contact several times a week
- Working closely with social workers
- Working with adoptive parents
“Not everyone has been as fortunate as you are. Sometimes the cycle needs to be broken.”
advice for anyone thinking about fostering
Jan’s guidance is simple and honest:
“Speak to foster carers and get the real story. You’re not ‘saving’ children—you’re caring for them. You don’t do it for the money. It’s 24/7, not a job you can switch off from.”
But the rewards?
“The babies bring me joy every day. Seeing them smile and giving them a good start in life—that’s why I do it.”
looking back—and looking forward
As Jan nears retirement, she knows the memories will stay with her forever.
“It feels great knowing I helped put the foundations in place. Seeing children thrive is just wonderful.”
And what does she want people to understand about foster carers?
“You’re giving children a good start in life. Every day is different, but we love what we do.”
thinking about fostering in cardiff?
Jan’s story shows the life-changing difference foster carers make—especially when children stay close to their community, schools, and birth family networks.
If you live in Cardiff and want to explore fostering with your local authority fostering service, send us a message and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.
If you live elsewhere in Wales, visit the Foster Wales website where you can find all the information and contact your local authority service.
We’re here to support you every step of the way.
