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Between 7 October and 25 October, WeCare Wales are shining a light on the role of a social worker

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Long-term Foster Carer

As a long-term foster carer you will be matched with the right foster child for as long as they need you.

Being a Long-term Foster Carer

For children who can't live at home, long-term foster represents security and a stable family life for the child, often until adulthood.

Long-terms foster car means matching together the right foster child with the right carer for as long as they need you, usually until the young person turns 18, or often 21 under a different arrangement known as 'When I'm Ready'.

About the workplace

Foster carers will work from home, supported by an office-based team in their local authority or fostering agency. Supervising social workers will guide you and identify support needs and opportunities for learning and development appropriate to the children in your care.

Sandra's Story

Sandra and her husband have been foster carers since 2001.

Required Qualifications

No qualifications needed.

To become a foster carer you will be assessed by a social worker and approved as a foster carer with your local authority or fostering agency.

Getting started as Long-term Foster Carer

Foster Wales is a national network of 22 Welsh Local Authority fostering services. They're part of your local community, close by with expert local support and guidance.

They:

  • keep children local wherever possible.
  • are one team
  • not for profit

Training programmes

If you’re considering a career in care, we have a range of training programmes available to help you get started.