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The Wales Foster Carer Handbook brings together key guidance, policies and practical information to support you in your fostering role. It covers everyday responsibilities as well as what to do in urgent situations, giving you clear, easy access to the resources you need.

Teenage boy arguing with foster parent.

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When you need support or advice straight away

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Welcome to your handbook

Action for Children Fostering Wales understands what it takes to ensure that fostering families experience long term successful relationships with the children they care for.

We offer a unique opportunity to be part of a wider foster family community, one which supports people every step of the way. All of our families and staff team share in a range of whole family events and activities, and we have our own creative ‘Arts Space’ in which we come together to have fun and spend quality time making connections and learning new things.

We offer 24/7 support by a team that will know you personally and our bespoke therapeutic approach enables families to help children who have experienced neglect and childhood trauma to thrive in their care.

We are there whenever you need us and we ensure that your fostering journey is rewarding.

As a leading children’s charity, we campaign actively in Wales to improve the lives of children, and it is our foster parents and children voices that inspire us to engage with Welsh government to promote meaningful.

There is an old saying that says ‘it takes a village to raise a child., Action for Children Fostering Wales is that village.

Matt Lewis

Fostering Service Manager

- Boy and girl baking with their foster carer, reflecting guidance and everyday support - Foster carer helping two children bake, showing the caring, hands‑on role of fostering If you want it to feel more focused on teaching, bonding, or everyday life, I

Caring for children

Key information: This section covers the essential elements of looking after a child in your care, either as a full member of your household or as a regular short-break visitor.

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Our support to you
This section of the handbook sets out what support you can expect from us, and what we ask of you within the legal and organisational frameworks that cover us all.
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Child's winter outfit laid out on a wooden surface, including a tan hooded jacket, cream cable-knit sweater with buttons, gray trousers, and gray lace-up boots. The clothing items are arranged neatly and show a coordinated cold-weather ensemble
Foster carer finance and insurance
This section summarises the financial aspects of fostering and insurance cover.
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Foster parents and their daughter sharing a moment with a foster child, challenging myths about who can foster
Where you can find out more
Further reading is available on all aspects of fostering and your Action for Children Fostering social worker will assist you in accessing what you need. A selection of key sources is below.
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An adult and a teenager sitting at a wooden table in a kitchen, engaged in a discussion while looking at a tablet. The setting includes papers and a clipboard on the table, suggesting a collaborative or educational activity.

Action for children Fostering policies

This space brings together the key fostering policies you may need, all in one place. It’s here to support you, reassure you, and help you feel confident in the important role you play for children and young people.

Our policies