We spoke with two young people who spent their teenage years in foster care and asked them to share their experiences. They shared what it felt like to move between homes, what made a difference and the support that helped them thrive.
Chelsea and Ieuan both entered foster care as young children with their siblings and experienced multiple placements. Chelsea recalls the uncertainty of moving between homes:
“I didn’t know what was happening. I was scared because I didn’t know the foster carers or anyone in the house. Walking into a new home felt uncomfortable.”
Having other children in the household helped her but feeling treated equally was crucial:
“It mattered that we were all treated the same so that I felt part of the family. If I felt different, I’d sometimes ‘kick off’ just for attention—it didn’t matter if it was good or bad, as long as I was noticed.”
Although she was initially placed with her sibling, Chelsea later moved to a placement on her own as a teenager. While difficult at the time, she now sees it as a positive step. Her final foster family became a lasting source of support, even after she moved into independence:
“I see my last foster carers as my family. I remember when Sarah took me shopping for my first pair of Hollister jeans—I was so overwhelmed I hugged her. It surprised both of us but it was a turning point. That connection meant everything.”
Frequent moves left Chelsea expecting the worst:
“I wouldn’t unpack because I thought I’d be moved again. My belongings were important because they were the only things that were truly mine. Each move meant starting over—new family, friends, school, everything. It was hard.”
At 17, she moved into her own flat but continues to rely on her foster carers for support:
“They’re always there when I need them. Now I help the younger children still living with them, which feels really good.”
Ieuan also experienced several placements and recalls the challenge of adjusting to new environments:
“I didn’t want to leave my friends—they meant everything. Sometimes I didn’t feel part of the family and would stay in my room unless I was out with friends.”
His experience improved when he moved to live with Sandra, a foster carer he already knew:
“I’d stayed with her on weekends, so there wasn’t that awkward stage. She already knew me, which made a big difference.”
Sandra encouraged him to feel included and supported his ambitions:
“She pushes me to do well in college and work. At Christmas, the house is full of extended family and I’m part of it all—it feels like I belong.”
As he prepares for independence, Ieuan knows that support will continue:
“Sandra is helping me get ready to move out and I know she’ll always be there for me.”
Both Chelsea and Ieuan reflected on the small things that helped them feel part of the family.
Chelsea said:
“Foster carers can’t prepare for everything but small gestures like a welcome basket show they care. For younger children, something like a new teddy can mean a lot.”
Ieuan added:
“Having photos of me with the rest of the family made me feel included. Having my own toiletries also helped—I didn’t feel awkward using other people’s things.”
They also shared advice for anyone considering fostering a teenager:
Ieuan:
“Teenagers need space and privacy but don’t let them isolate completely. Involve them and make them feel part of the family. Don’t judge them based on stories—everyone’s different.”
Chelsea:
“People can be scared of teenagers but they shouldn’t be. We just want to be loved and cared for. Don’t overthink it—it’s about giving someone a good life. For some teenagers, that connection can change everything.”
Reflecting on her journey, Chelsea added:
“I’m grateful to every foster carer who gave me a home. I wouldn’t be where I am today without them.”
Teenagers in care are at a crucial stage in their lives. While fostering is often associated with younger children, teenagers also need stability, guidance and support as they reach important milestones like exams, employment and independence.
Foster carers play a vital role in helping them navigate these years and build a positive future.
If you could help a teenager feel at home, support their journey and guide them towards independence, get in touch to find out more about fostering.
https://torfaen.fosterwales.gov.wales/ – 01495 766669 – [email protected]
