Change a future for children who need it most

Action for Children Fostering Wales is marking Fostering Fortnight (13-27 May) by appealing for more foster parents to change a future and give vulnerable children and young people the love and support they need. Fostering isn’t easy, but the rewards are huge – and the charity supports foster parents at every step.

The leading children’s charity is looking for people across South Wales to become part of its friendly and professional team. With extensive support and training, you could help young people who may have experienced neglect, abuse or trauma and cannot live with their family to build better, happier futures.

Matt Lewis, children’s placement manager at Action for Children Fostering Wales, said: We are celebrating Foster Care Fortnight this year by asking the public if they could change the future of a child or young person in care in South Wales. We provide careful matching, training, breaks when you need them, support groups and social events, competitive pay, and 24-hour support. We have over 100 years’ experience of putting children and young people in Wales at the centre of everything we do.

‘Our therapeutic approach helps carers to support the child in a way that really helps them to develop emotionally – reducing anxiety and increasing the chances of the child developing new trust, building secure relationships and feeling like a valued member of a fostering family. Our service in Newport also has a special therapeutic play resource; this helps children who have missed out on play to catch up on essential developmental experiences.’

Gail Barnes has been fostering with Action for Children for twelve years. She says it’s one of the best decisions she has ever made: ‘I became a foster carer as I believe every child and young person deserves to be loved and feel safe. I make sure that the young people who stay with me have everything they need to have secure, happy and healthy lives.

“There are challenges, as with raising any child, but with full support and training from Action for Children you have everything you need to flourish. I’d recommend fostering to anyone who can offer a child or young person a warm and loving home, with Action for Children’s support it’s a wonderful thing to do. Join me in changing a future today.’

If you’ve considered fostering but don’t think you’re eligible because of your age, gender or marital status, it’s time to think again. Whether you’re married or single, male or female, gay or straight, renting or a homeowner, and no matter your age – you can foster. Fostering isn’t about your personal circumstances or background, it’s about the support you can offer a child.

If you have a spare room and think you can make a child feel safe and cared for, please get in touch with Action for Children Fostering Wales. To find out more, please call 01633 270422 for more information, go to www.actionforchildren.org.uk or find us on https://www.facebook.com/Actionforchildrenfosteringwales