Local Success Stories

Foster Wales Carmarthenshire

Amy: Growing Up in a Foster Family

For Amy, growing up as the child of a foster carer has been a life-changing experience. Eight years ago, her family welcomed a little boy with complex learning needs into their home, and from that moment, fostering became a part of her everyday life.

“Friends often ask if I find it difficult and if I struggle sharing my parents with him, but I couldn’t imagine not being part of a foster family. After eight years, he’s just another brother to me! If anything, he brought our family together and made us closer.” Amy reflects.

Amy and her family have embraced the challenges and joys of fostering, and her bond with her foster brother has become unbreakable. The house feels noticeably quieter when he’s not there, and they eagerly await his return.

One of the most rewarding aspects for Amy is seeing the positive impact her family’s support has on not just her foster brother, but his entire birth family.

“We’re in touch with his family, and he has regular contact with them, which is so nice and it’s so rewarding knowing you’re helping and supporting not just one person but a whole other family.”

Amy’s foster brother, with his joyful personality and cheeky grin, has brightened their lives in countless ways.

“He’s the happiest and cheekiest little thing and could put a smile on anyone’s face, no matter how hard a day you’ve had at work, school, or even during a global pandemic! He gives us a reason to get ourselves up and out and keep busy with fun activities!”

Fostering has left such a lasting impression on Amy that she’s already considering it for her own future.

“If I had the opportunity when I moved out, I would absolutely look into fostering myself!” she shares.

Amy’s story is a celebration of the unique role children of foster carers play, and how fostering can strengthen the bonds of a family, creating lifelong relationships and bringing incredible joy.

For more information about fostering with your local authority in Carmarthenshire, or to make an enquiry, contact us.

Brett and Wendy: Celebrating 30 Years of Fostering

Meet Brett and Wendy

Brett and Wendy have marked an incredible 30 years of dedication to fostering with Carmarthenshire County Council! Their fostering journey began in 1994, after moving to a rural part of Carmarthenshire from Gloucestershire in 1984 with their two young children.

Once their children were settled in local schools, Wendy, who had experience as a childminder and worked in a specialist school for children with disabilities, took their first step on their fostering journey – approaching the local authority about becoming foster carers, and they have never looked back!

Until recently, both Brett and Wendy also worked full-time while fostering. Wendy working in a school allowed her to be home during holidays, giving her time to care for their foster children and transport them and their grandchildren to local schools.

Brett and Wendy’s Family

One of Brett and Wendy’s greatest strengths as foster carers is their ability to welcome sibling groups into their home, helping to maintain the bonds between brothers and sisters.

“We’ve been lucky enough to be in a situation of being able to take sibling groups, which can be much better for the children in your care.” Wendy reflects.

Over the years, they have fostered 32 children, many of whom still keep in touch! In a heart-warming addition to their family, the couple adopted two brothers, aged 6 and 7 at the time, who are now in their thirties.

Their family dynamic grew further in 2008 when their daughter, Emma, and her family moved back to live with them. Brett and Wendy converted an old cowshed into a home for Emma, her husband Carwyn, and their two sons, creating a multi-generational household where the foster children became part of a wider family network. Both their grandchildren, now 18 and 15, have been instrumental in welcoming foster children into the home.

Wendy’s two brothers and their families live locally, and they too play a big role in fostering, offering support and providing a sense of belonging for the children.

Brett’s extended family in Gloucestershire also visits frequently, giving the children an even broader experience of family life.

Treating Every Child Like Family

Brett and Wendy are deeply passionate about making every child they care for feel like part of their family. They go above and beyond to include the children in all family activities – from holidays to day trips to everyday family gatherings. Their extended family’s involvement helps foster children feel supported and part of something bigger.

For the couple, fostering isn’t just about care, it’s about providing children with the opportunities to grow, flourish, and experience life to the fullest. Whether it’s walking, cycling, swimming, or team sports, Brett and Wendy encourage the children in their care to try new activities and build their confidence.

The Importance of Staying Local

Brett and Wendy also highlight the importance of staying local. The dedicated support from the local authority has helped Brett and Wendy navigate the complexities of fostering and work towards the best outcomes for each child.

“We’ve found staying with our local authority important as we’ve had consistency with staff – some of whom have been there as long as us.

“They are committed to the support of the children in their care and finding them the best outcome to their situations.

“It makes our role easier when we have a team of people who we know are working in the best interests of the children in our care” Wendy shares.

Memorable Moments

Among their most memorable experiences is supporting a young person from the age of 11 through several significant life transitions.

“We recently supported a young person from the age of 11 through school, bereavement, college, moving into supported living, getting a job, and he has now moved into his own flat in the town of Carmarthen where he grew up.” Wendy reflects proudly.

Another fond memory is fostering siblings who have been with them for over three years now.

“They are very settled in school and are very much part of our family and have become a big part of our extended family.” Brett says.

They acknowledge that fostering isn’t without its challenges, but their approach – rooted in patience, love, and understanding – has helped children grow at their own pace.

Finding Joy in New Beginnings

Brett and Wendy have also fostered babies who have been adopted, and while it can be challenging to let go, they find it rewarding to know they’ve given the child a strong start in life. Their resilience and dedication are testaments to the deep connections they’ve built with the children who have passed through their doors.

Their legacy as foster carers is rooted in love, family, and community – a true success story that continues to shape the lives of children in Carmarthenshire.

Has Brett and Wendy’s Experience Inspired You to Think About Fostering?

If Brett and Wendy’s story has inspired you to consider fostering and providing care for children who need it, get in touch with us today. You could offer the love, support, and stability that can truly change a child’s life.

Emma’s journey from a fostering household to social work

For Emma, fostering isn’t just her job – it’s part of who she is. Growing up in a fostering household in Carmarthenshire, she saw first-hand the impact a safe, caring home can have on a child’s life. It’s this experience that inspired her to pursue a career in social work.

“I saw how important it was for children and young people to feel safe and cared for, especially when their world felt unsafe and unpredictable.”

Now, with 23 years of experience in children’s services and two years in the fostering recruitment team, Emma works to find and assess foster carers across Carmarthenshire. Her role goes beyond this – it’s about building a community that ensures children and young people can stay in the area they call home. Love transforms lives, and Emma sees it every day through the incredible work of our foster carers and through the smiling eyes of children.

“When children are fostered locally, they can stay in their schools, keep their friends, and remain close to the places and people they know. It’s about giving them stability and a sense of belonging, which is crucial for their development and wellbeing.”

Emma is passionate about the strong fostering community in Carmarthenshire, which she believes is vital for supporting carers and children alike.

“Foster carers are ordinary people doing extraordinary things.

“We have a wonderful fostering community. We hold events to bring everyone together, and our experienced mentors are always there to offer advice and share their knowledge.”

Cllr. Jane Tremlett, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Services and Children and Families emphasises the importance of local fostering:

“Keeping children and young people in their communities allows them to maintain vital connections with their schools, friends, and support networks. It’s about giving them the best possible chance to thrive in a familiar and loving environment.”

Emma also works to challenge misconceptions about fostering and social work.

“People often think social workers are there to judge… But our job is to help and work alongside foster carers to make sure we’re doing the best for the children and young people in our community.”

Supporting new foster carers is a key part of Emma’s role. The fostering team provides training and guidance to ensure every carer is fully prepared for the challenges and rewards of fostering.

“We want potential carers to make an informed decision, that’s why we guide them through training and offer support at every step. Fostering doesn’t just affect the carers themselves but their whole network, so we’re there to make the journey as smooth as possible.”

For Emma, the most rewarding part of her work is seeing children and young people thrive in foster care. Fostering is a powerful way to really make a difference.

“When children feel safe and supported, especially in their local community, they flourish. It’s incredible to see them happy, achieving their potential, and building a brighter future.”

Her advice for anyone in Carmarthenshire considering fostering is simple:

“Talk to us. We’re here to help you understand what fostering involves and to support you every step of the way. It’s a big step, but it’s one that can change a child’s life – and yours.”

Emma’s journey from growing up in a fostering household to her role as a social worker highlights the power of care and community. Every child deserves a safe and loving home, and fostering is one of the most powerful ways to help make that happen. Could you open your heart and home to help transform a child’s life?

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

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.

The power of relationships in fostering with Marie, Mal and Madison

As Foster Care Fortnight (12-25 May) celebrates the power of relationships, Foster Wales Carmarthenshire is proud to share the heart-warming story of local foster carers Marie and Mal, and their close bond with 15-year-old Madison.

Marie and Mal, who are approaching their eighth year as foster carers, have created a stable, loving home for Madison and her brother since the siblings came into their care six years ago. Madison was just nine years old when she was placed with the couple, and the connection they’ve built over the years is a testament to the transformative impact of fostering.

The couple, who have two children of their own, currently care for five foster children. Marie and Mal emphasise the importance of treating every child with the same care and consistency.

"It is no different than bringing up your own children.”

For Madison, the connection with her foster family has meant everything.

"My relationship with Marie and Mal means everything to me. Marie, Mal and the whole family are my family. I have all the love and support in the world from them all.”

The couple’s fostering journey has been strengthened by a supportive network.

"Our family enjoys being involved, helping whenever they’re needed, and being part of the children’s lives.

Each child’s needs are different. We never stop learning! We have excellent support with our supervising social workers, children’s social workers, and emotional team.

We do go through bumps along the way, but with all the support from professionals it makes it easier."

Marie is also a mentor for other foster carers, using her experience to support those new to fostering. Her role highlights the power of relationships not only with foster children, but within the fostering community too.

"Foster carers you become friends with and support each other.”

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

"Marie and Mal’s story shows just how important strong, stable relationships are for children and young people in foster care. Their dedication has made a real difference in Madison’s life, and it’s a powerful reminder of the lasting impact foster carers can have.”

Marie and Mal’s Supervising Social Worker, Rebecca, added:

"I have only been supporting Marie and Mal for the last few months and it has been such a great experience. Marie and Mal provide a warm, supportive, and nurturing environment for the children in their care. Their consistent communication, patience, and understanding have made a significant positive impact."