Foster Care in Wales: How Much of an Influence Does the Welsh Language Have?

When it comes to foster care in Wales, language and culture play a crucial role in shaping a child’s sense of identity and belonging. The Welsh language is more than just a means of communication, it’s a living connection to history, culture, and community. For children requiring foster care, who may already face challenges in feeling grounded, the ability to access their first language can be hugely significant.

In this blog, we’ll explore how the Welsh language influences foster care in Wales, the legal responsibilities surrounding it, and how agencies like Family Fostering Partners support bilingualism.

What is the Welsh language legislation in foster care in Wales?

The Welsh Government actively supports and promotes the use of the Welsh language through its Strategic Framework for the Welsh Language in Health and Social Care, More Than Just Words.
This framework highlights the importance of meeting the language needs of Welsh speakers, ensuring that Welsh language services are available for those who need them, and recognising that language is a vital part of delivering high-quality care.

In the context of foster care, this means that local authorities and fostering agencies have a responsibility to consider a child’s linguistic needs as an essential part of their care plan.

At Family Fostering Partners, when matching a child with a fostering family, we take into account whether the child is a Welsh speaker, attends a Welsh-medium school, or comes from a family where Welsh is the main language. At Family Fostering Partners, we believe that supporting a child in this way is an essential part of maintaining their cultural identity.

Why is it important to recognise and support the Welsh language and culture in foster care?

Language is deeply tied to identity, and for many children in Wales, Welsh is their first language. Losing access to this can cause distress and create additional feelings of loss during what may already be an unsettling transition into foster care. We place children at the heart of everything that we do, and we believe that by supporting the Welsh Language within foster care, we enable the children we look after to:

• Maintain cultural connections – It reinforces their sense belonging to their community, family and friendship groups.
• Keep up with education – Many children attend Welsh-medium schools, so continuing to learn in their first language is vital to their education. 
• Feel heard and understood – Being able to speak in their preferred language can build trust and emotional security with fostering families and professionals.

Ultimately, recognising and supporting the Welsh language in foster care respects a child’s right to their cultural heritage, which is a key principle in providing holistic, child-centred care.

How foster care agencies in Wales support bilingualism

At Family Fostering Partners, we are committed to creating an inclusive environment. 

• Welsh-language information – We provide our information leaflets and materials in both English and Welsh to make sure everyone has  access to vital information. Click here to request an information pack, or feel free to use the ‘Talk to Us’ feature and ask us a question in Welsh.
• Bilingual staff – Many of our team members are Welsh speakers, meaning we can communicate with children, families, and foster parents in their preferred language; from providing support to training sessions and everything in between!
• Matching process – When always consider language needs when matching a child with a fostering family, especially if they are Welsh-speaking or attend a Welsh-medium school.
• Encouraging cultural pride – We celebrate Welsh culture, traditions, and events, helping children who are looked after to remain connected to their heritage.

By valuing and promoting the Welsh language, we help ensure that foster care Wales truly reflects the rich culture and identity of the communities we serve.

Are you interested in becoming a foster parent in Wales?

If you’re considering fostering, whether you’re a Welsh speaker or not, you can make a real difference in a child’s life. We’ll support you every step of the way, with training, resources, and a dedicated team that understands the unique needs of foster care in Wales.

Get in touch with Family Fostering Partners today to learn more about fostering in Wales and how you can help shape a brighter future for a child.