Foster carers in Vale of Glamorgan share ‘breakthrough’ moments for Foster Care Fortnight
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 for 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.
A Vale of Glamorgan foster carer was among the 120 carers who responded to the Foster Wales survey, sharing some of the small but powerful milestones that mean the most: “There were moments where I thought that things were really beginning to change and they were starting to settle, this included the first time they asked for a hug, and said ‘I trust you,’. It was lovely to see them relax and really smile and choosing to sit next to us to watch a film.”
Ceri O’Dare, Operational Manager for Children Looked After Service at Vale of Glamorgan Council said: “Foster Wales Vale of Glamorgan is proud of its dedicated foster carers and encouraged to see them making strong use of available resources.
“This support is having a positive impact on children’s lives, particularly when addressing complex challenges such as childhood trauma. The feedback highlights just how vital and valued local support is and reinforces the organisation’s commitment to standing alongside carers through every stage of their fostering journey.”
To find out more about becoming a foster carer in Wales, visit valeofglamorgan.fosterwales.gov.wales.
This Foster Care Fortnight, you can meet your local Foster Wales team at:
Wilmores Café, Penarth, Friday 15th May 2026, 10am - 12pm
Gwyl Fach Y Fro, Barry Island, Saturday 16th May 2026, 11am - 5pm
Online Information Session, Wednesday 20th May 2026, 7pm-8pm. Book your space here.