A foster carer in Carmarthenshire has shared some powerful moments for ‘Foster Care Fortnight’.

The first time a child laughs, opens up about their day or asks to watch a film are moments many people might take for granted. For foster carers, they can mean something much more.

Children who have experienced trauma often develop ways of protecting themselves. A national survey commissioned by Foster Wales found around 80% of foster carers surveyed have supported children displaying trauma-related behaviours. While these challenges can be tough, half of these carers said they noticed a meaningful breakthrough within the first six months of a placement.

Foster carers shared that these moments are often rooted in everyday interactions, but they represent far more than that. For children in foster care, they can signal progress, growing trust, and the beginnings of healing after childhood trauma.

After experience, support and professional guidance, almost all carers (93%) said they are now confident responding to trauma‑related behaviours.

Ammanys from Carmarthenshire, who fosters alongside her mother, Louise, was one of 120 foster carers who responded to the Foster Wales survey. Together, they have cared for children with complex needs following experiences of trauma.

Ammanys said: “Taking in your first placement is a nerve-racking experience. You’ve spent months researching and learning and now you’re caring for a child who has been through more than most adults ever should. You do the best you can and take each day at a time.

“Meeting the child where they are is probably the best thing we can do as foster carers. Sometimes we can’t fix things, and we don’t need to. They just need to know that they’re not alone and that someone cares.

“It's seeing the small wins. A non-verbal child says their first words, a child opens up about their trauma, asks you for help, or they simply feel safe enough to go to the bathroom without asking first. It’s these moments that build your confidence and make everything seem ok.

“At the heart of it all is a child who just needs you to care for them and love them.”

Cllr. Jane Tremlett, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Services and Children and Families, said: “Stories like Louise and Ammanys’ highlight the vital role foster carers play in helping children and young people feel safe and supported. In Carmarthenshire, we are committed to providing local foster carers with the training, guidance and ongoing support they need to help children recover from trauma and thrive.”

To find out more about fostering in Carmarthenshire, visit Foster Wales Carmarthenshire.