Advice for potential foster carers

Anyone who wants information about foster caring can find out more at events being held in Monmouthshire during Fostering Fortnight (11th May to the 24th May).

Fostering experts from Monmouthshire County Council will be on hand to answer questions for those people interested in caring for a child.

They'll be available at between 10am and 4pm at

            *           Chepstow Library on the 22nd May

            *           Abergavenny, Red Square on the 28th May

Sandra Kendall from Monmouthshire County Council's Children's Placement Team said:

"We want people to pop in and get facts that will help them to make the decision about whether foster caring is for them or not.

"We need foster carers for a variety of age ranges - but particularly for older children, and for unaccompanied minors who come to the UK from abroad. We currently have 32 carers - general carers and specific carers (who care for specific children often family/friends foster carers). We also have 5 respite carers. However we would like more foster carers to help care for Monmouthshire's children.

"Our current carers come from a wide variety of backgrounds, and many of them have prior experience working with young people, some through raising their own family, and some in other ways, like through work.

"Being a foster carer is all about enjoying working with young people, having good communication skills, and offering consistent boundaries and a stable environment.

"Some of our young people have experienced difficulties in their relationship at home and may have been subject to abuse or neglect.

"Because of these past experiences, some young people's behaviour can be challenging on occasions - this is when they need someone to help them negotiate their way through these difficulties, and to be their champion.

"Becoming a foster carer can be extremely rewarding as it's often the little things that make it all worthwhile, such as a young person choosing to come and talk to you about their problems, or phoning to let you know they're going to be late home as they realise that you do worry about them.

"If you think you might be interested in fostering or you'd like to know more, come to our stalls during Fostering Week or give our Child Placement Team a call on 01873 735900.  They will give you lots more information about fostering, and tell you about the support and training we offer carers."