For Amy, growing up as the child of a foster carer has been a life-changing experience. Eight years ago, her family welcomed a little boy with complex learning needs into their home, and from that moment, fostering became a part of her everyday life.
“Friends often ask if I find it difficult and if I struggle sharing my parents with him, but I couldn’t imagine not being part of a foster family. After eight years, he’s just another brother to me! If anything, he brought our family together and made us closer.” Amy reflects.
Amy and her family have embraced the challenges and joys of fostering, and her bond with her foster brother has become unbreakable. The house feels noticeably quieter when he’s not there, and they eagerly await his return.
One of the most rewarding aspects for Amy is seeing the positive impact her family’s support has on not just her foster brother, but his entire birth family.
“We’re in touch with his family, and he has regular contact with them, which is so nice and it’s so rewarding knowing you’re helping and supporting not just one person but a whole other family.”
Amy’s foster brother, with his joyful personality and cheeky grin, has brightened their lives in countless ways.
“He’s the happiest and cheekiest little thing and could put a smile on anyone’s face, no matter how hard a day you’ve had at work, school, or even during a global pandemic! He gives us a reason to get ourselves up and out and keep busy with fun activities!”
Fostering has left such a lasting impression on Amy that she’s already considering it for her own future.
“If I had the opportunity when I moved out, I would absolutely look into fostering myself!” she shares.
Amy’s story is a celebration of the unique role children of foster carers play, and how fostering can strengthen the bonds of a family, creating lifelong relationships and bringing incredible joy.
For more information about fostering with your local authority in Carmarthenshire, or to make an enquiry, contact us.
If you live elsewhere in Wales, visit Foster Wales to learn more about fostering and to find your local authority fostering team.
