Local authority foster carers share ‘breakthrough’ moments this Foster Care Fortnight
Tuesday 19 May 2026
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 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 per cent 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 per cent) said they are now confident responding to trauma related behaviour.
The findings were released during 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.
“That first smile was everything. The jumping and twitching became less when a door/baby gate closed, or the dog barked. When they laid in their moses basket for 10 whole minutes without crying. These things, though seeming small, were massive for baby and bit by bit, day by day we have made massive strides. Every day we’re learning something new. Every child is different and without the support of our social workers and fellow carers, we would feel lost. Coffee support has been one of the biggest helps to us and from the first meeting we’ve felt part of a team – the best team. Our community of foster carers in Bridgend are just fantastic.”
"These breakthrough moments highlight the incredible dedication of our foster carers. Their patience and compassion provide the foundation for children to heal from trauma and thrive in a secure environment. We are immensely proud of our carers in Bridgend and encourage anyone interested in making a life-changing difference to reach out."
To find out more about becoming a foster carer in Bridgend, visit: bridgend.fosterwales.gov.wales
You can also meet your local Foster Wales Bridgend team at the following venues:
- Pyle Garden Centre – Thursday 28 May, 12-3pm
- Princess of Wales Hospital – Thursday 4 June, 9am-1pm
- Pyle Garden Centre – Thursday 8 June, 10am-12pm
