Deciding to become a foster carer is a big step that often begins with a lot of thought and careful consideration.
In this blog Q&A, we chat with our newly approved foster carers, Jayne and Craig, about their journey from the very first moment they considered fostering to making that crucial first contact with us at Maethu Cymru Gwynedd.
They share the motivations that encouraged them to take the first step into fostering, along with insights into the early stages of the process of becoming an approved foster carer.
how long had you been thinking about fostering before making the decision to go for it?
We first spoke about fostering over 20 years ago, but at the time, we simply didn’t have the space. The idea stayed with us, though, and it always felt like something we’d come back to when the time was right.
how did you hear about Maethu Cymru Gwynedd, and how long did it take for you to make the initial contact?
Craig spotted a Maethu Cymru banner near his workplace, which sparked the conversation again. We both agreed it was time to find out more, so we visited the website to explore our options. About a month later, we decided to complete and submit the online enquiry form.
what were those initial stages of contact like? what were your first impressions?
We were quickly contacted by the team and a home visit was arranged. A lovely, down-to-earth lady called Lina came to see us, and she made us feel comfortable straight away. We had a long conversation about why we were interested in fostering, and she patiently answered all of our questions. Although we were nervous – it was all so new to us – everyone we met was so reassuring and supportive that our nerves soon settled.
how did you find the assessment process?
It was definitely intense and time-consuming. We met with our social worker weekly for sessions that often lasted two to three hours. Some of the questions took us deep into our past – things we hadn’t thought about in years. At times, it felt a bit like therapy! There were moments of tears, but also a lot of laughter. Reflecting on how far we’ve come in life, and everything we’ve overcome, left us feeling proud.
The process is understandably intrusive – after all, you’re being trusted with the care of vulnerable children. It has to be thorough. But despite the depth and detail, we actually found it an invigorating experience.
how long did the whole process take?
From our first enquiry to approval, the whole journey took around nine months. Some delays were related to chasing information from children’s services in a local authority where we’d previously lived.
were there any stages you found particularly difficult? did you feel well supported?
We wouldn’t say there were any stages that were truly difficult – mainly because we were supported every step of the way. Of course, revisiting the more challenging times in our past was emotional, but even that ended up being therapeutic. The team were fantastic and always there when we needed them.
how did you feel about attending panel? were you nervous? what was going through your mind?
We were definitely nervous! The thought did cross our minds – what if they say no? But we were really well prepared. Our social worker had put in countless hours to get everything ready for panel, and she supported us brilliantly throughout.
what advice would you give to anyone considering fostering or taking the first step?
If fostering is something you’ve been thinking about, take that first step and get in touch. There’s absolutely no pressure – you’re free to walk away at any point if it doesn’t feel right (though we’re pretty sure you won’t want to!).
The people at Maethu Cymru are fantastic, and from the beginning, you’ll feel like part of the family.
The decision is always yours – the power really is in your hands.
are you ready to take the first step towards fostering with your local authority?
If you live in Gwynedd, contact Maethu Cymru Gwynedd and a member of our dedicated team will be in touch for a friendly, no obligation conversation to help you decide if fostering is right for you.
If you live anywhere else in Wales, visit Foster Wales for more information and to find your local authority fostering team.
