Caerphilly County Borough Council is calling on people who feel they could become a foster carer to get in touch to find out more about how they could change a child’s life.
Foster carers make a huge difference to a child’s life, by providing a safe caring environment for children who need it most. Many children remember when they are first taken into foster care and the initial care given to them by their foster carers. ‘Alex’ was taken into foster care 6 years ago and has experienced first-hand the importance of the work of foster carers:
Alex recalls when he first arrived at his foster home, “I remember there were three people sitting down Robert, Denise and another child – a teenage girl. I was a bit frightened. Denise said “do you want a biscuit and milk” I said “yes please”. Catherine took me to see my room and looked around. I remember thinking “why am I going to be sleeping here?”
“That was six years ago; there have been lots of other children who have come to stay and then moved on, it’s sad when they go but I’m happy to stay. I now call Denise and Robert – Nan and Granddad, they are still my foster carers but this is now my home.
If you feel you could become a foster carer please get in touch, if you have some space in your home and some time in your life you could help us to look after a child. There is no upper age limit but you do have to be over 21 years old to become a foster carer. You can be male or female, single, heterosexual, gay or lesbian, divorced, widowed or living with a partner. You don’t need to own your own home and it doesn’t matter if you already have children or stepchildren. If you feel you can make a difference, please call for an informal chat or to receive more information about becoming a foster carer.
Cllr Robin Woodyatt, Cabinet Member for Social Services said: “Foster carers are a hugely valuable part of our society for the incredible work that they do. Helping to change a child’s life is an incredible achievement and I would encourage anybody who feels that they have something to offer to get in touch with Caerphilly County Borough Council’s Fostering Team for an informal chat. Full support and advice is offered every step of the way and there is always somebody on hand with guidance to ensure the best possible experience for children and carers alike.”
For more information about fostering call 0800 587 5664 or Text ‘foster’ to 78866.