Helpline launched for foster carers in Wales

Foster carers in Wales will be able to benefit from a bilingual helpline thanks to an injection of £50,000 from the Welsh Assembly.

The helpline will be set up and run by fostering charity the Fostering Nework, and brings the 1,900 foster carers in Wales into line with those in England who already have their own helpline.

Callers will be able to get independent and impartial advice on all areas of fostering, from information on leaving care provision to advice on legislation or finance.

Jane Butler, director of the Fostering Network Wales, said: “This is fantastic news. Fostering is a very rewarding but challenging task. We hope the helpline will become an invaluable resource to support all those involved in looking after fostered children.”

Sian Edwards, a foster carer in Wales, also welcomed the announcement. “It is reassuring to know that quick advice and guidance from people who understand what we are going through will soon be only a phone call away,” she said.