Rob from Denbighshire’s decision to become a foster carer was shaped by his own upbringing and family life.
Growing up with his siblings, with his Dad playing a central role in their day-to-day care, and later becoming a parent to his own children, Rob developed the values, patience and understanding that led him into fostering.
He initially began fostering as part of a couple, but later continued the path as a single male foster carer.
In this blog, Rob shares his experience of fostering through change, reflecting on the challenges, rewards and memorable moments that have inspired him to keep making a difference in children and young people’s lives.
why did you decide to become a foster carer?
As a child, I grew up in a household with my siblings and my dad, who was my main carer. The love, stability and care he gave us had a big influence on me, and it’s one of the reasons I decided to become a foster carer.
I’m also a parent to three birth children, and raising them has helped me develop many of the skills I now use as a foster carer, such as patience, understanding and putting children’s needs first.
did you specify age ranges of the children you wanted to foster?
When I was first approved as a foster carer, I did specify certain age ranges. But over my 14 years of fostering, I’ve cared for children of all ages — from babies to teenagers — and each age group has brought its own rewards and challenges.
what transferable skills do you think you had that have helped you as a foster carer?
Growing up, my dad was very laid back, and I think I’ve carried that approach with me. It’s not about a lack of rules or boundaries, but about understanding that children sometimes need to feel heard and in control.
Giving them the space and time to adjust, while still being there to support them, has been really important. Patience, empathy and allowing children to adapt at their own pace are skills I’ve found invaluable as a foster carer.
what are the biggest challenges and rewards in your fostering experience?
For me, one of the biggest rewards has been watching my foster child transition into adulthood. Seeing her go to college, get herself up in the mornings, take the bus and show up for herself every day has been incredibly rewarding.
It’s the little things that matter most — those everyday moments that show growing confidence and independence — and they reassure me that I’ve done something right.
why did you decide to foster with Foster Wales Denbighshire?
When I first looked into fostering, it was with my partner at the time. My partner was keen to foster, and I wasn’t completely sure at first. Since then, my journey has changed a lot — I went from being part of a fostering couple to becoming a single male foster carer, which wasn’t something I had planned for.
Choosing to foster with Foster Wales Denbighshire has been the best decision I’ve made. Throughout my journey, I’ve felt supported and encouraged, and that support has given me the confidence to continue fostering and to grow in the role.
how would you sum up your fostering experience?
My fostering experience has been both rewarding and challenging at times, but above all, it has been full of unforgettable memories. Many of those moments are among the best of my life, and watching a child grow and thrive is something that’s hard to put into words—it’s incredibly meaningful and deeply rewarding.
your favourite fostering memory that stands out to you
When I first became a foster carer, we had two young children staying with us and decided to go on a camping trip for the weekend. Shortly after arriving at the campsite, we were hit by a severe storm, with strong winds and heavy rain, which meant we had to spend the night camping inside our seven-seater car.
After a very rough night’s sleep, the children looked at me with beaming smiles and said they were so happy and had “the best time ever.” It was such an eye-opening moment and a reminder that fostering is really about creating memories—things don’t have to be perfect to be meaningful.
one piece of advice you would give to a single male carer who is considering fostering
When I tell people I’m a foster carer, they’re often surprised and ask a lot of questions. Most of the time, they’ll say, “Gosh, that must be hard work.” My advice would be not to go into fostering thinking it’s hard all of the time. It’s a big decision and, of course, there are challenges along the way, but seeing children flourish and knowing you’ve made a positive difference in their journey is incredibly rewarding.
It’s something that’s hard to fully explain unless you experience it yourself. If you have the time, patience, and the ability to open your heart and home to children, I’d say – just do it!
could you foster with your local authority, like Rob?
If you live in Denbighshire and feel that you could help build better futures for local children, contact Foster Wales Denbighshire. A member of our dedicated team will be in touch for a friendly, no-obligation chat to help you decide if fostering is right for you.
If you live anywhere else in Wales, visit Foster Wales to find your local authority fostering team.
