this is fostering

What is fostering?

Fostering is about providing a safe, stable home for children who cannot live with their birth families. Foster carers offer care, routine, and reassurance, helping children feel secure during times of uncertainty. Across Cardiff, fostering plays a vital role in supporting local children and young people to thrive.

The reality of fostering – positives and challenges

Fostering is rewarding, but it isn’t always easy. Many children may not have wanted to leave their birth home and can arrive feeling worried, angry, or confused. Some have experienced trauma, neglect, or abuse, and may not have had clear boundaries or stability before coming into foster care.

Despite the challenges, fostering gives children consistency, care, and the chance to build trusting relationships that help them move forward.

Different types of foster care

There are many ways to foster in Cardiff, depending on your circumstances. These include short breaks, short‑term and long‑term fostering, emergency, caring for teenagers, parent and child fostering, sibling groups and emergency fostering. This variety means people from many walks of life can become foster carers.

The impact on families

Fostering involves the whole family and can create strong, meaningful bonds.

Beth, a foster carer with Foster Wales Cardiff, explains that her daughter was 11 when they started fostering and was the only child living at home at the time.

“My daughter encouraged us to foster. We now care for a sibling group of two, and all three children share a great relationship. They attend youth clubs, social activities, and go shopping together. It is lovely to see them together and the younger children look up to my daughter.”

Meeting challenges and celebrating achievements

Helen, a foster carer, talks openly about the challenges of supporting children who have experienced trauma, neglect, and physical and emotional abuse.

“Behaviour can be difficult to manage at times, but the greatest reward is seeing young people grow in confidence and achieve their goals.”

Personal growth and connection

Joy describes fostering as a journey of growth and learning. She has found creative ways to build positive relationships with birth families and better understand different perspectives, helping her become more mindful and aware. Joy also shares how important it is to help children feel welcome and safe from the moment they arrive.

“The room is always ready, cake mix is kept in the freezer, and cookies go in the oven just before a child arrives. I keep a journal for each child as part of their memory box, giving them a record of their story should they want to look back when they’re older.”

Why people foster

In Paul’s words

“Fostering is the most meaningful thing I’ve ever done. I’ve built a successful business and a good family life, but fostering has brought an unexpected depth of love and joy. Caring for a baby whose only real need is you is an incredible, life‑changing experience.”