the process

The first step into the exciting world of foster care is that initial enquiry. That spark that made you want to find out more. And since you’re already here, that bit is very close to completion. This already shows us that you want to make a difference to children’s lives in Pembrokeshire. It may not seem like much, but it’s that first step in the right direction.

This is where the Foster Wales Pembrokeshire team come to meet you. It’s a chance to get to know you, see where and how you live so we can build a good relationship right from the off. It’s nothing too strenuous. Just a bit of paperwork over a cuppa. This also gives us the chance to meet the important people already in your life, who may well be in the life of the child you come to care for.

At this early stage, we start building on your existing skills with a three-day training course. Sometimes called “Skills to Foster’, or “Preparation to Foster”, the course is designed to teach you more about fostering, what your role will be, and who will be there to support you.

The course will help you feel ready to become a foster carer. It will also give you the opportunity to start building connections with foster carers near you, and our friendly team.

Throughout the assessment, you will get a better understanding of what fostering will mean for you. This isn’t us testing your worthiness. It’s a chance for us to explore further how you live and interact with people in the community. This is a learning experience, so it’s also a great way for you and your family members to ask any questions on everything foster care. Whatever you want to know, we can give you the answers.

It’s about preparing for the rewards and challenges that fostering might bring.

The panel may sound ominous. It’s anything but. Our panel is made up of experienced individuals, who will ultimately consider all the information we’ve gathered in your assessment.

The panel doesn’t exist to give your journey a red or green light. It’s about looking at your assessment from all angles, and making recommendations about what might work best for you.

Once the panel have seen what an amazing foster carer you will be, you’ll be asked to sign the foster care agreement. This outlines exactly what it means to be a foster carer in Pembrokeshire. It also provides details of all the support, guidance and advice available to you courtesy of Foster Wales. Now, your fostering story can begin.