The incredible emotional and financial support offered by Foster Wales Carmarthenshire

As part of Foster Wales Carmarthenshire’s Fostering in Llanelli campaign, they’re continuing to address common misconceptions that often prevent potential foster carers from enquiring. One of the most common concerns potential foster carers have is whether they would receive enough support, both emotionally and financially.

Foster Wales Carmarthenshire provides a strong support system for foster carers, recognising that they play a vital role in the lives of children and young people in foster care in Carmarthenshire. This support begins with pre-approval training, such as Skills to Foster, and continues with learning and development opportunities.

Support is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, delivered by experienced and qualified social workers.

In Carmarthenshire, there’s a strong focus on the well-being of foster carers. Support is available, allowing foster carers time to rest and recharge, while maintaining consistency for the children and young people in their care. In addition to this, foster carers are part of a wider community, with regular social events and opportunities to connect with other local foster carers.

Foster carers also receive a range of practical benefits, including free memberships to The Fostering Network and New Family Social, access to discount schemes through partners like Cadw and the National Trust, and a Blue Light Card.

Foster Wales Carmarthenshire provides financial support tailored to the specific needs of the child or young person and the level of care required. In line with their new fostering payments framework, foster carers receive a package ranging from £351 to £942 per week, combining the child’s needs allowance (covering essentials like food, clothing and utilities) with an allowance to recognise the skills, time and experience foster carers bring to the role.

Adam, Carmarthenshire foster carer, said:

“Fostering has offered me incredible emotional and financial support.”

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

“Foster carers play an incredible role in changing the lives of children and young people in foster care in Carmarthenshire. It’s essential that they feel supported practically, emotionally, and financially. We’re here to guide and assist our foster carers every step of the way.”

A series of in-person events will be held at Llanelli Library:

• Friday, 17 October 11am – 1pm
• Friday, 31 October 11am – 1pm

Anyone interested in fostering is encouraged to attend to meet the team, ask questions, and find out how fostering could fit into their lives. For events on alternative dates/times or at other locations across Carmarthenshire, visit Foster Wales Carmarthenshire Events.

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