Loren is a Senior Practitioner in the fostering team. She’s been a social worker since 2014 and joined the fostering service in 2022 after working in child protection. These days, her focus is on supporting foster carers and helping children in care have the best possible chance to thrive.
No Two Weeks Are Ever the Same
Ask Loren what a typical week looks like, and she’ll tell you there really is no such thing.
Her week might include visiting foster carers at home, holding supervision sessions, attending reviews for children in placement, and making sure plans are still meeting a child’s needs. She also supports carers with training, completes annual reviews, attends fostering panel meetings, and checks in with anyone who may be finding things tough.
“There’s definitely some paperwork,” Loren says, “but the best part is always the time spent directly with foster carers.”
Support Is at the Heart of the Role
Being there for foster carers is central to Loren’s job.
If things feel overwhelming, she increases contact through phone calls or visits and helps carers access extra support, including psychology consultations. Sometimes, it’s simply about having someone who will listen and work things through alongside them.
“I always ask carers what they need,” she explains. “Everyone’s different, so it’s about working out what will actually help in that moment.”
And support doesn’t stop at 5pm. Foster carers can access duty and emergency support lines in the evenings and at weekends, so there is always someone available if something urgent comes up.
Helping New Carers Grow in Confidence
For people new to fostering, Loren focuses on making sure they feel supported from day one.
This includes helping carers access core training like safeguarding and first aid, as well as more specialist training such as therapeutic parenting. Regular check-ins, thoughtful matching, and linking new carers with more experienced foster carers all help build confidence and resilience.
She also encourages carers to attend support groups and events so they can connect with others who truly understand fostering life.
Working as One Team
The fostering team works closely together and regularly takes time to celebrate foster carers through events, meals, and appreciation activities. Being a smaller team helps build strong relationships, which has a direct positive impact on children and carers.
“We’re a small team, which really helps,” Loren says. “Carers know us, and we know them.”
The Best Part of the Job
For Loren, the most rewarding part of the role is seeing foster carers make a real difference in children’s lives.
Whether that’s a child settling into school, feeling safe for the first time, or moving into long-term stability, those moments are what make the job so meaningful.
“Helping carers have those success stories is really special,” she says.
Thinking About Fostering?
Loren’s message to anyone thinking about fostering but feeling unsure is simple:
“Fostering has its challenges, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. You’re never expected to do it alone, our team is here to support you every step of the way. And we really do need more people to come forward.”
Interested in becoming a Foster Wales Blaenau Gwent foster carer?
Get in touch –
01495 369620
[email protected]
https://blaenau-gwent.fosterwales.gov.wales/
