Foster Care Fortnight 2026

Foster Care Fortnight 2026

Steve and Karen

"When you see them now" - Foster carers in Conwy 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 ahead of 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.

Steve and Karen have been fostering with Foster Wales Conwy for over 15 years, with caring for teenagers becoming one of the most meaningful parts of their journey.

Their approach focuses on building independence and preparing teenagers for adulthood, encouraging young people to take on responsibility step by step. “These may seem like small lessons, but they help build confidence and support young people in imagining a future for themselves,” they said.

Steve reflected that the most rewarding moments come “when you see them now” and witness what the young people they’ve cared for go on to achieve. Karen added, “We’re proud of all of them because they’ve all achieved something.”

The young people they have supported have gone on to university, qualified in professions such as nursing and dental care, entered employment, learned to drive, and built independent lives. Many continue to stay in touch, returning for Christmas dinners, barbecues, and regular visits, relationships that have lasted well beyond their time in care.

Head of Children, Family and Safeguarding Services at Conwy County Borough Council, Stephanie Robbins, said: “At Foster Wales Conwy, we’re proud of our foster carers and the steady, life-changing support they provide to young people, often at times when it’s needed most.

“As Steve and Karen highlighted, it’s the small, everyday moments - sharing a meal, talking about school, choosing a film - that help young people feel safe, build trust and start to believe in their own future. Having a trusted, consistent adult can make all the difference in helping children lower their guard and take steps forward after trauma.

“In Conwy, we’re committed to supporting our foster carers so they feel prepared, confident and never alone as they help young people move into adulthood, achieve their goals and stay connected.”

To find out more about becoming a foster carer in Conwy, visit: www.conwy.fosterwales.gov.wales