The power of relationships in fostering with Bev and Reg

This Foster Care Fortnight (12-25 May), Foster Wales Carmarthenshire is celebrating the power of relationships in transforming the lives of children and young people in foster care.

For Bev and Reg, fostering has been more than providing a home, it’s been about building lasting relationships for the children and young people in their care. Along with their three children, they have been fostering a 17-year-old boy with disabilities for 11 years.

Over the years, he has become an inseparable part of their family. Their journey together has been one of love, commitment, and connection.

We are very lucky to have this special young man in our care. Although he can’t verbally tell us, the smiles and cuddles confirm he enjoys our company. We have a really strong relationship.

Bev goes on to reflect on how fostering him has shaped their family’s life.

Fostering him has had a huge impact on our family’s life, but definitely for the better. We have had the pleasure of his company for 11 years and can’t imagine our life without him. The whole family has embraced him and are proud to be a fostering family.

Bev and Reg have always believed in maintaining his connection with his birth family. From regular updates to attending family gatherings, they ensure he continues to share moments with those who love him.

I think it is really important for him to have time with his parents and siblings. Helen, Leighton, and I speak on a weekly basis, and I send photos and updates regularly as I believe it is important they are involved.

We often attend family parties and occasions, which allows members of his extended family to see him too.

His birth parents, Helen and Leighton, are incredibly grateful for the love and care he has received in foster care with Bev and Reg:

We see him growing and getting stronger week on week and it is lovely to see. We want to thank Bev and Reg so much for looking after him. We recognise the importance of good foster carers.

Cllr. Jane Tremlett, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Services and Children and Families, said:

Foster carers like Bev and Reg show the true power of relationships in fostering. Their dedication ensures not only a safe and loving home but also stability, continuity, and a sense of belonging. Maintaining family connections and providing consistent care for children and young people is invaluable, and we are grateful for the commitment they have shown.

For anyone thinking about fostering, Bev and Reg have one piece of advice.

Go for it! It has its emotional ups and downs but is deeply rewarding and could make a huge difference to a child or young person and their family.

To find out how you can make a difference by fostering in Carmarthenshire, visit Foster Wales Carmarthenshire. Or to make an enquiry, contact us now.