Small moments change lives

5 May 2026

The first time a child laughs or opens up about their day may feel like small moments, but for foster carers across Wales, they are powerful signs of a breakthrough. These moments show a child is beginning to feel safe, to heal, and to feel loved.

This year's Foster Care Fortnight theme, This is Fostering, shines a spotlight on the real, lived experiences of foster carers and the vital role they play in helping children feel safe, valued and secure.

Foster carers Sandra and Jon from Powys have been caring for a young person who has lived with them for several years and is now very much part of their family.

"For us, fostering is about helping a young person feel safe enough to be themselves. The young person who lives with us is part of our family now, not just in our home, but throughout our wider family too. He's treated as a younger brother, included in everyday moments, family jokes and shared experiences."

"We think it's important for him to experience real family life, the laughter, affection and even the occasional disagreement. Those everyday moments help him understand what healthy, caring relationships look like."

"Watching him grow in confidence reminds us every day why fostering matters."

If you want to make a difference to the lives of children in Powys, chat to our fostering team as they head out and about across the county at the following events:

Tuesday 12 May

• Costa Coffee, Newtown - 11:00am-1:00pm
• Morrisons, Newtown - 10:00am-2:00pm

Thursday 14 May

• County Hall - 10:00am-2:30pm

Tuesday 19 May

• Knighton Hub Community Centre - 10:00am-2:00pm

Wednesday 20 May

• Machynlleth Co-op - 10:00am-2:00pm

Thursday 21 May

• Hay-on-Wye Market - 9:00am-2:00pm

Or visit fosterwales.gov.wales

Sharon Powell, Head of Children's Services, said: "At Foster Wales Powys, we are incredibly proud of our foster carers and the vital role they play in supporting our children and young people. It is encouraging to see carers using the resources and support available to them, particularly when helping children work through complex experiences such as childhood trauma.

"Our foster carers are absolutely central to our closer to home ambition, enabling children in our care to remain within their own communities, schools and support networks wherever possible. We are wholly committed to standing alongside our carers through both the highs and the challenges of fostering, and this feedback clearly demonstrates how valued and essential local support is in helping Powys children thrive."