Young people with experience of being in care are sharing the meaningful relationships they developed through the fostering community that changed their lives for the better.
This Foster Care Fortnight, which takes place annually and falls between May 12 and May 25 in 2025, is celebrating the power of relationships this year.
Whether it’s the bond between a carer and a child, the relationship created with supportive social workers, or the friendships built with other foster carers in a community, strong relationships are the golden thread that run through all fostering stories.
In Wales, there are more than 7,000 children in care, but only 3,800 foster families. Foster Wales is aiming to recruit an additional 800 carers by 2026.
Ruby shared their story of the lasting relationships they have formed as a result of having been fostered by Tracy and Lee through Foster Wales RCT. One of the things that stands out for Ruby is the relationship between her birth and foster mothers and the positive impact that has on her:
“I love that my mother and foster carer get along so well, it means we all do lovely things together for my family time and I do not have my contact at the contact centre”.
Rhondda Cynon Taf Council's Director for Children’s Services, Annabel Lloyd, said: “I look forward to Foster Care Fortnight every year as the campaign gives me an opportunity to personally thank all of our foster carers. This year I am delighted that we have been involving some of the children in our care to find out more about the positive experiences that they have whilst being fostered. Children are always at the centre of everything we do, and it is so important to listen to them regularly about their experiences in foster care.
"I am thrilled to hear about the great relationships children and foster carers have developed through Foster Wales RCT. That includes strong links with their social workers, teachers, friends and family. It makes me really proud of the things that we can achieve when we work together as a team focused on creating positive outcomes for children”.
Meet your local Foster Wales RCT team this Foster Care Fortnight in person at the Aberdare Parkrun on May 17, at the Aberdare Festival on Saturday, May 24, or join us online for our next information session on Wednesday, May 21, from 7-8pm. Visit our website for more details.
Posted on 12/05/2025