ways to foster

who can foster

who can foster in blaenau gwent?

The truth is, there are children in Blaenau Gwent who actively need someone in their life to listen to them. To support and care for them, no matter what.

Almost anyone is eligible to foster – whether they’re single, married, rent their home or own it. Becoming a foster carer has no boundaries and our team will work to find a child that’s the perfect match for you.

We actively celebrate diversity with our foster carers. We know it’s the skills, love and experience you bring that matter most, and we also know a wide and varied skill set makes a huge difference to all our children.

After all, no two children are the same, and neither is the foster parent they need.

If you’re still unsure fostering is for you, our myth-buster may help you decide if it’s the right thing to do:

foster myths: separating fact from fiction

Fostering with us is an opportunity to make a difference to children in Blaenau Gwent. It isn’t one structured type of care, but a variety of things from overnight stays to longer-term placements. This flexibility needs all different kinds of people.

We need diverse carers with different backgrounds, experiences and stories to help build a better future for children of all ages.

If you’ve got any doubts or questions when looking after a child in care, we’ll be your dedicated expert base. Along with your friends, family and community in Blaenau Gwent, we all join forces to achieve the best for the children we care for.

These are a few of the more common questions we’re asked when someone is considering becoming a foster carer:

 

can I foster if I work full time?

If your work life is busy, it might just mean you need a little extra support from family and friends. We believe working shouldn’t be a barrier to fostering. It’s just something that might need some extra planning.

We offer a variety of types of foster care, meaning some will fit in with your life better than others. Some of our foster carers offer short breaks, and others offer longer-term care. We know how much of a commitment fostering is, and we approach it as a team.

If you choose to foster with us, you’ll work with a mix of professionals who will support you at every step.

 

can I be a foster carer if I live in rented accommodation?

Absolutely, you can be a foster carer whether renting or paying a mortgage – if you feel safe and secure where you live, then so could a child. We’ll work out what’s best for you, wherever you call home.

 

can I foster if I have children of my own?

Yes, you can definitely still foster if you have your own children. In fact, having foster siblings can be hugely rewarding as it gives children insight and understanding. It helps children to form friendships and build on their ability to care for others.

There’s no typical foster family, and no typical foster child either. Taking care of foster children means extending your family and adding more people to love and care for.

 

am I too old to foster?

There’s no maximum age limit when it comes to fostering; you can be in your 20s or well into your 70s. Whatever your age, you’ll get the expert local support and training from our team to prepare you to start your fostering journey.

 

am I too young to foster?

While life experience is a bonus, we don’t mind how old you are – you’re welcome to become part of the fostering family once you’re an adult. We’ll make sure our network of support will be on hand to guide you- no matter your age.

 

do couples who foster have to be married or in a civil partnership?

No. When it comes to being excellent foster carers, there are no particular requirements around being in a relationship or not. The most important focus is the children and stability you can offer – if your home offers stability, you could foster.

 

can I foster if I’m transgender?

Yes. Gender plays no part in whether you’ll be a great foster carer. We’ll count your skills, empathy and caring personality as the most important feature in your application.

 

can I foster if I’m gay?

Of course, when it comes to fostering, sexual orientation isn’t a consideration at all. What matters most is your ability to listen, care and offer a safe space to a child who needs you.

 

can I foster if I have a dog or cat?

Having any kind of pet, doesn’t hold you back from becoming a foster carer. It simply means we’ll include them in your assessment to make sure they’ll get on well together with any children you care for.

We know pets can offer a totally different type of support and love which can be such a benefit to a child in foster care.

 

can I foster if I smoke?

The most important part of your fostering journey is being honest so if you do smoke, just let our team know. We can give guidance on how to quit if you’re looking for help. As with every one of our foster matches, it’s all about finding the right match for you and the child in care.

 

can I foster if I’m unemployed?

Whether you’re unemployed or have irregular work, it doesn’t impact your chances of being a foster carer. As long as you’re able to offer support, guidance and love every day, you’re eligible to be a foster carer.

 

can I foster if I don’t have a big house?

The size of your home doesn’t matter at all- as long as you’ve got a spare room where a child can feel at home in their own space, you’ll still be considered.

 

find out more about fostering

types of fostering

Fostering is a great opportunity to make a real difference to someone’s life. Whether it’s for an afternoon, a weekend, a year or more.

learn more
A boy is smiling

common questions

How does fostering in Blaenau Gwent work and what can I expect? Find the answers here.

learn more
A girl on a swing

support and rewards

Learn more about the rewards of becoming a foster carer today here.

learn more
Woman and young girl using computer to make video call

get in touch