Fostering in Llanelli

We're proud to announce the launch of our new campaign, Fostering in Llanelli, with the core message: Local foster carers for local children. Start your journey.

Fostering in Llanelli is a dedicated campaign in response to the rising numbers of children and young people in foster care in Carmarthenshire who come from Llanelli.

Recent data shows that 76% of children and young people currently in foster care in Carmarthenshire are from Llanelli (2023-2024). Yet, many children and young people are placed outside of their hometown due to a shortage of local foster carers.

A common concern potential foster carers have is whether their home or skills are suitable. As part of our Fostering in Llanelli campaign, we're tackling common misconceptions like these that often prevent potential foster carers from enquiring.

The truth is, fostering is more accessible than many people realise.

You don't need to own your home, you can foster if you rent, as long as your living situation is stable. You don't need to be married or have children of your own. You can foster as a single person, as part of a couple, or as a family.

What's essential is that you have a spare bedroom and can provide a safe, supportive, and caring environment for a child or young person.

Another common concern potential foster carers have is whether their lifestyle is flexible enough. As part of our Fostering in Llanelli campaign, we're continuing to tackle common misconceptions like this that often prevent potential foster carers from enquiring.

Many people assume that fostering requires being at home full time, having lots of spare time, or making major changes to their day-to-day lives. But that isn't always the case. We support a wide range of foster carers, some work full time, others work part time, and many balance other responsibilities alongside fostering.

There are different types of fostering to suit different lifestyles, from short-term and long-term fostering to more specialist types of fostering. Some foster carers provide short breaks, while others support children and young people on a more regular basis. Every role helps to make sure children and young people in foster care in Carmarthenshire feel safe and supported.

One of the most common concerns potential foster carers have is whether they would receive enough support, both emotionally and financially. As part of our Fostering in Llanelli campaign, we're continuing to address common misconceptions like this that often prevent potential foster carers from enquiring.

We provide a strong support system for foster carers, recognising that they play a vital role in the lives of children and young people in foster care in Carmarthenshire. This support begins with pre-approval training, such as Skills to Foster, and continues with learning and development opportunities.

We provide financial support tailored to the specific needs of the child or young person and the level of care required. In line with our new fostering payments framework, foster carers receive a package ranging from £351 to £942 per week.