For Emma, fostering isn’t just her job – it’s part of who she is. Growing up in a fostering household in Carmarthenshire, she saw first-hand the impact a safe, caring home can have on a child’s life. It’s this experience that inspired her to pursue a career in social work.

“I saw how important it was for children and young people to feel safe and cared for, especially when their world felt unsafe and unpredictable,” she explained.

Now, with 23 years of experience in children’s services and two years in the fostering recruitment team, Emma works to find and assess foster carers across Carmarthenshire.

Her role goes beyond this – it’s about building a community that ensures children and young people can stay in the area they call home.

Love transforms lives, and Emma sees it every day through the incredible work of our foster carers and through the smiling eyes of children.

“When children are fostered locally, they can stay in their schools, keep their friends, and remain close to the places and people they know. It’s about giving them stability and a sense of belonging, which is crucial for their development and wellbeing,” she said.

Emma is passionate about the strong fostering community in Carmarthenshire, which she believes is vital for supporting carers and children alike.

“Foster carers are ordinary people doing extraordinary things.

We have a wonderful fostering community. We hold events to bring everyone together, and our experienced mentors are always there to offer advice and share their knowledge.”

Cllr. Jane Tremlett, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Services and Children and Families emphasises the importance of local fostering: “Keeping children and young people in their communities allows them to maintain vital connections with their schools, friends, and support networks. It’s about giving them the best possible chance to thrive in a familiar and loving environment.”

Emma also works to challenge misconceptions about fostering and social work.

“People often think social workers are there to judge… But our job is to help and work alongside foster carers to make sure we’re doing the best for the children and young people in our community.”

Supporting new foster carers is a key part of Emma’s role. The fostering team provides training and guidance to ensure every carer is fully prepared for the challenges and rewards of fostering.

“We want potential carers to make an informed decision, that’s why we guide them through training and offer support at every step. Fostering doesn’t just affect the carers themselves but their whole network, so we’re there to make the journey as smooth as possible.”

For Emma, the most rewarding part of her work is seeing children and young people thrive in foster care. Fostering is a powerful way to really make a difference.

“When children feel safe and supported, especially in their local community, they flourish. It’s incredible to see them happy, achieving their potential, and building a brighter future,” she continued.

Her advice for anyone in Carmarthenshire considering fostering is simple: “Talk to us. We’re here to help you understand what fostering involves and to support you every step of the way. It’s a big step, but it’s one that can change a child’s life – and yours.”

Emma’s journey from growing up in a fostering household to her role as a social worker highlights the power of care and community.

Every child deserves a safe and loving home, and fostering is one of the most powerful ways to help make that happen. Could you open your heart and home to help transform a child’s life?

To find out how you can make a difference by fostering in Carmarthenshire, visit Foster Wales Carmarthenshire. Or to make an enquiry, contact us.