Gwynedd foster carers support phasing out profit from children’s care in Wales, focusing on local authority care benefits.
The “Staying Local” campaign shares the benefits of this approach. It’s led by carers and young people with care experience. The policy helps kids stay local, which allows them to keep connections to friends and school.
Wilma started fostering in 2005 via an agency. In 2009, she switched to Maethu Cymru Gwynedd. Wilma says switching was her best decision. She greatly appreciates the support she receives from social workers and other carers.
Wilma thinks of the fostering group as a family. She suggests contacting the local authority if one is considering fostering, as they offer a lot. Pat also moved from an agency and joined the local authority in 2019.
Pat praises the Maethu Cymru Gwynedd team. Her social worker always answers calls, and the team has answers for their needs. They all live nearby and support each other. Training sessions and outings build community. She encourages people to call about fostering.
Wales has over 7,000 children needing care, but only 3,800 foster families exist. Gwynedd has over seventy foster families. Foster Wales hopes to recruit 800 more by 2026, to provide homes for local kids.
Menna Trenholme says local authorities don’t profit; all funds support the children’s well-being. Fostering locally helps kids stay connected, near friends and family, which builds stability and a sense of who they are. She suggests contacting Maethu Cymru Gwynedd to discuss different fostering options.