New fostering helpline in Wales

Foster carers in Wales are to get a dedicated helpline run by charity Fostering Network and funded by the Welsh assembly government.

Foster carers in England already have their own helpline. Its staff do not have the knowledge of local provision or policy to support callers from Wales, Fostering Network says.

Sian Edwards, a foster carer in Gwynedd welcomed the helpline, which was announced yesterday.  “It sounds like it will be a fantastic source of information and advice for foster carers. Fostering has many joys, but like any job, it can also be quite demanding and at times you need support.

 “It is reassuring to know that quick access to advice and guidance from people who understand what we are going through will soon be only a phone call away,” she said.

There are 3,200 children and young people living with 1,900 foster families in Wales.