Celebrating 30 Years of Calon Cymru Fostering

Three Decades of Care, Commitment & Community

This year marks a very special milestone for everyone at Calon Cymru Fostering as we celebrate our 30th anniversary. For three decades, we have been proud to support foster carers and transform the lives of children and young people across South Wales. As Wales’ oldest Independent Fostering Agency, this anniversary is not only a celebration of our history — but of the thousands of lives that have been shaped by care, stability and compassion.

A Legacy Built on Heart

“Calon” means heart in Welsh — and heart has always been at the centre of everything we do.

Since our founding, we have worked in partnership with dedicated foster carers who open their homes and hearts to children in need of safety, belonging and opportunity. Over the last 30 years, we have seen first-hand the life-changing difference that nurturing foster families can make.

From providing emergency placements to long-term stability, from supporting sibling groups to helping young people transition into independence — our foster carers have been there every step of the way.

The Power of Foster Care

At the core of our success are our incredible foster carers. Their patience, resilience and compassion create the foundations that children need to rebuild confidence and thrive.

Scott Ruddick, Director of Calon Cymru Fostering, reflects on this impact:

“For 30 years, our foster carers have been the driving force behind every success story at Calon Cymru. The impact they have on the lives of children across South Wales cannot be overstated. They provide stability where there has been uncertainty, encouragement where there has been doubt, and love where it is needed most. Foster carers don’t just change a child’s present — they help shape their future.”

This impact extends far beyond individual homes. When a child feels safe, supported and valued, they are more likely to succeed in education, build healthy relationships and develop the confidence to achieve their ambitions. The ripple effect of fostering strengthens families, communities and the wider region.

Why the Need Has Never Been Greater

While we proudly celebrate our 30-year legacy, we also recognise the urgent and growing need for more foster carers across South Wales.

The number of children requiring safe and supportive homes continues to rise. Many children need to stay within their local communities — close to schools, friends and extended family — to maintain vital connections. Recruiting more local foster carers is essential to making this possible.

Scott Ruddick adds:

“The need for foster carers is stronger than ever. Across South Wales, more children are coming into care and they deserve to remain within their communities wherever possible. We are actively looking for individuals and families who can provide safe, stable homes. If you have the space, empathy and commitment to make a difference, fostering with Calon Cymru could change a child’s life — and yours.”

Looking Ahead to the Future

As we celebrate 30 years, we are not just reflecting on the past — we are looking forward to the future with ambition and determination.

We remain committed to:

• Providing exceptional support and training to our foster carers
• Ensuring children receive high-quality, personalised care
• Recruiting more foster carers across South Wales
• Strengthening partnerships with local authorities and communities

Our mission remains the same as it was three decades ago: to ensure every child has the opportunity to grow up in a safe, nurturing and supportive home.

Join Our Fostering Family

If you’ve ever considered fostering, now is the perfect time to find out more. You don’t need to be married, own your home, or have previous parenting experience — what matters most is your commitment, compassion and willingness to make a difference.

As we celebrate 30 years of care, commitment and community, we invite you to be part of the next chapter of Calon Cymru Fostering’s story.

📞 Call us today on 0800 014 7331
🌐 Visit: Contact Us | Calon Cymru Fostering

Together, we can continue building brighter futures for children across South Wales — for the next 30 years and beyond.