When considering fostering, you may sometimes wonder ‘what do foster carers really think about their social workers?’.
Here at Foster Wales Merthyr, we could tell you ourselves that we do our very best to build strong, trusted relationships with everyone involved in fostering. We could tell you that we value and respect every individual who’s committed to helping the children in our care. We could even tell you that our social workers go above and beyond to ensure that our foster carers feel supported and that we’re all part of the same team.
But why listen to us, when we have such wonderful foster carers that will explain it to you themselves?
A letter from Sam – a foster carer in Merthyr – about her supervising social worker
Hiya,
In the almost 17 years of fostering with Merthyr Tydfil Social Services we have had some excellent supervising social workers… truly.
But this past year some of our experiences have made us realise how important it is to have a great, experienced supervising social worker who really takes time to observe and get to know your family, and the children who have been placed with you.
In some circumstances this year I feel our social worker went above and beyond in her role, and I feel that has helped me stay grounded and focused.
She has come out of her way to physically help me with some things and has always been available on the phone too.
All of my children and young people are extremely comfortable in her presence and feel like they are being listened to and supported. I personally feel that too, which definitely helps me confidently ask for help if I feel I need it.
Her attention to detail and listening skills are second to none as is her knowledge and ability to communicate effectively and professionally on my behalf sometimes with school and others.
As our journey continues now into the lovely world of teenagers and GCSEs no doubt I’ll need some extra support going forward, but I’m confident that I’ll get it in abundance.
Shout out to the wider team too! Whenever I’ve called in, be it for immunisation forms needing signing or just a quick chat about something I needed a second opinion on, I’ve always been welcomed and respected, and my issues dealt with efficiently.
Thanks again!
Sam
At Foster Wales Merthyr we want foster carers to succeed, with support from their social workers
Merthyr Tydfil is a close-knit community, and we not only take pride in how our social workers support our foster carers, but also how our foster carers support each other. We want our foster carers to thrive, because that’s the very best thing that will help the children that need it most.
In addition to support from our team, as a foster carer in Merthyr you will also receive:
- 100% Council Tax reduction
- Competitive weekly allowances per child
- Free parking in all Merthyr Council car parks
- Holiday and birthday additional payments
- Dedicated local support team
- Access to therapeutic practitioners
- Comprehensive training and equipment support
If you’re interested in finding out more about fostering, about how you could become an integral part of our team, please contact us here. We’d love to have a chat with you.
