Foster Carers in Merthyr Tydfil celebrate contribution of foster siblings

Foster carers in Merthyr Tydfil are celebrating the vital contribution their own children play in the fostering journey.

As part of Children of Foster Carers Week (from October 13 to October 19), Foster Wales Merthyr Tydfil carers are sharing stories of how their children have helped make those in their care feel happier, more welcome, safer, and more loved.

Some people say the potential impact on their children is one of the barriers to becoming a foster carer, but many children find benefits to being a part of a family who fosters. Seeing life from another’s perspective can be an enriching experience that can help a child learn and develop as an individual. Children also find they can develop their own bonds with children who are fostered in their home.

Foster carer Sarah shared their story of involving their child in the process of fostering through Foster Wales Merthyr Tydfil.

“I think Harry has coped extremely well. I was a bit worried at first about being a single mum and how Harry would find sharing everything – from his mum to his home and space. Harry was meant for fostering. He is so kind and caring and loves having the company. When we don’t have any extra children with us, he misses the busy house!

"I love watching Harry interacting with the children, he is very nurturing and loves helping the children settle into new routines and learning new skills. He really understands that many of the children that live with us aren’t as lucky as he’s been and that they have missed out on lots of things because of this.”

Sarah’s son Harry shared:

“Before becoming a foster family I was excited because I would have lots of children to play with. I told my whole class when the fostering team said we could be a foster family. I’m proud to tell my class what a foster family is and what we do.

"When children first come to our house and mammy is talking to the grown ups, I show them round our house. I start with their bedroom and then show them all of our toys they can play with and our snack drawer!! I feel lucky and very important in helping other children. I love showing and helping them to learn new things like brushing our teeth together or learning numbers. I also like reading stories to them.

"I think it’s important to have more grown ups to help keep children safe and healthy. I love fostering and meeting lots of new friends.”

Cllr Louise Minett-Vokes, Cabinet Member for Social Care commented: “These children are the unsung heroes of fostering. They open their hearts, share their homes, and become crucial support systems for children who need love and stability the most."

To find out more about becoming a foster carer in Merthyr, visit merthyrtydfil.fosterwales.gov.wales