SIR,
My partner Norma and I have been fostering for 20 years and have looked after more than 70 children.
Becoming a foster carer is the best thing I've ever done. Every day I'm helping young people to turn their lives around.
Hundreds of local foster carers are urgently needed across South Wales, for children of all ages, but especially teenagers.
Without more foster carers children face moving a long way from their family and friends and being split up from their brothers or sisters.
I feel proud to have been able to make a difference to the lives of so many children. Foster Care Fortnight 2011 (16th to 29th May) has just raised the profile of fostering, but new foster carers are needed all year round.
I would urge anyone who has ever thought about fostering to get in touch with their local fostering service today, or visit couldyoufoster.org.uk or call Fosterline Wales on 0800 316 7664 to find out more.
Alan Torry
(Foster carer and trustee of the Fostering Network Wales)