Carmarthenshire foster carer opened her home and found she had more to offer than she ever imagined

As part of Foster Wales Carmarthenshire’s Fostering in Llanelli campaign, they’re tackling common misconceptions that often prevent potential foster carers from enquiring. A common concern potential foster carers have is whether their home or skills are suitable.

The truth is, fostering is more accessible than many people realise.

You don’t need to own your home, you can foster if you rent, as long as your living situation is stable. You don’t need to be married or have children of your own. You can foster as a single person, as part of a couple, or as a family. What’s essential is that you have a spare bedroom and can provide a safe, supportive, and caring environment for a child or young person in need.

Another misconception is that people need specific qualifications or professional experience working with children and/or young people. While that experience can help, it isn’t required. Foster Wales Carmarthenshire offer comprehensive pre- and post-approval training.

Beca, Carmarthenshire foster carer, said:

I opened my home and found I had more to offer than I ever imagined.”

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

Everyone can bring something to the table in fostering. All our children and young people are different, and so are the foster carers we need to support them. We value the range of life experiences and skills our foster carers bring to the role.”

Anyone interested in fostering is encouraged to attend an in person event to meet the team, ask questions, and find out how fostering could fit into their lives.

To learn more about fostering or to start your journey, visit Foster Wales Carmarthenshire.