New foster care opportunities in the Welshpool area

Residents in the Welshpool area are being invited to learn about a new foster care opportunity that offers over £19,000 a year to carers who are available to provide short-term support for children and young people in crisis.

Powys County Council’s fostering team will be in the town twice this August to speak to anyone interested in becoming a foster carer. They will be at Newtown Integrated Family Centre on Tuesday, August 13 from 11am-2pm, and again at the Fun and Information Fair in Newtown on Wednesday,  August 21 from 10am-2pm.

The new Reflective Foster Care scheme – the first of its kind in Wales – is designed to ensure children have immediate access to safe and supportive homes during difficult times. Carers receive a guaranteed payment of more than £19,000 annually simply for being on call, plus £250 per week when a child is placed with them. Most of the income is tax-free and the role includes five weeks’ annual leave, 24-hour support and specialist training.

Cllr Sandra Davies, Powys County Council’s Cabinet Member for Future Generations, said the scheme is ideal for those who want to make a difference in children’s lives and can offer care at short notice. She said it provides a regular income and allows carers to support young people when they need it most.

She added that while fostering can be challenging, the impact is hugely rewarding, offering children stability and support during a critical time in their lives.

The fostering team will also be visiting other locations across Powys throughout August. Anyone interested in reflective, short-term or long-term fostering is encouraged to speak to the team in person or contact them by email at fostering@powys.gov.uk or by calling 0800 22 30 627.