Foster Carers In Caerphilly Share ‘Breakthrough’ Moments

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The first time a child laughs, opens up about their day, asks to watch a film; these are moments that many might take for granted, but for foster carers in Wales, they symbolise one thing, a breakthrough.

Children who have experienced trauma often develop ways of protecting themselves. This might include behaviour such as anxiety, emotional shutdown, intense reactions or difficulty following rules.

A national survey commissioned by Foster Wales found around 80% of carers surveyed have supported children who displayed behaviour like this. While these challenges can be tough, half of foster carers surveyed also said they noticed a meaningful breakthrough within the first six months.

Foster carers shared that these breakthrough moments were often centred around small moments of connection, but they represent more than that: for children in care, it means they have made progress, they have started to feel safe, they have started to heal, to feel loved and to feel supported following childhood trauma.

After experience, support and professional guidance, almost all carers (93%) said they are now confident responding to trauma‑related behaviour.

The findings are released ahead of Foster Care Fortnight, the UK’s largest annual campaign to raise awareness of fostering, which takes place every May. This year’s theme, This is Fostering, shines a spotlight on the real experiences of foster carers and the vital role they play in helping children feel safe.

At Foster Wales Caerphilly, we are committed to supporting our foster carers through the highs and the lows of fostering, and this survey shows just how important and valued that local support is.

To find out more about becoming a foster carer in Caerphilly, visit https://caerphilly.fosterwales.gov.wales/