Foster Wales launches a campaign to recruit local carers, aiming to keep children connected to their communities.
Torfaen places 75% of kids with local carers. They still need about 35 more foster homes. Sharon-Ann fostered with an agency in 2015. She then joined Foster Wales Torfaen.
Sharon-Ann said MyST impressed her a lot. She switched because of the helpful team and feels supported by her social worker. Simona offers advice and support when needed.
Local fostering lets kids stay connected. They keep family and friends nearby, and stay in their own community. This helps them adjust to a new home.
Kids needing care go to local carers first. If they can’t find a home, agencies help. Last year, 70% placed by agencies lived far away. Only 15% fostered locally moved away.
Richard Clark values all foster carers’ support. Local care is best for kids and families and it also fits the County Plan goals. They hope more people become local carers. The campaign wants to solve the carer shortage and keep kids local.