Farming and Fostering: A perfect match for rural Wales
In the heart of rural Wales, one FUW member is proving that farming and fostering can go hand in hand. A dedicated social worker, who is also a farmer, is working to support rural communities through fostering. Oliver (Ollie) Roberts farms a mixed sheep and cattle farm in North Pembrokeshire while working part time for the National Fostering Agency (NFA Wales).
Ollie says: “The combination of social work in fostering and farming gives me a unique insight into the challenges and strengths of farming families and I firmly believe that farmers are ideally placed to provide loving, stable homes for children in need.
“I’m lucky in NFA in that I have a line manager who is both reasonably local to me, is also from a farming background and understands the demands of farming but also the strengths farming families have. We at NFA Wales are trying to encourage more farming families across Wales to consider fostering, they would receive regular support and a generous weekly financial allowance to help them on their journey.”
Ollie believes that while farmers have a deep connection to the land and a strong commitment to social issues, NFA also recognise that farmers have a natural ability to nurture and provide care, not only for their animals and land but also for children who need stability, routine, and support and the wider community.
Why farmers make great foster carers
Ollie believes that farming life is built on values of hard work, patience, and resilience - qualities that are also essential for fostering. A farm provides a unique environment where children can thrive, surrounded by fresh air, open spaces, and meaningful daily routines. The structure of farm life, from feeding animals in the morning to harvesting crops in the evening, offers children a sense of stability and purpose, which can be incredibly beneficial, especially for those who have experienced upheaval in their early lives.
Additionally, farms are naturally therapeutic places. The chance to care for animals, help with daily tasks, and be part of a close-knit rural community can be life-changing for a foster child. Many children in care struggle with confidence and self-esteem, but the responsibility and routine of farm life can help them build trust, learn new skills, and develop a sense of belonging.
Support for farming families
One of the key messages from these fostering advocates is that farmers who decide to foster won’t be doing it alone. The National Fostering Agency provides ongoing support, training, and financial assistance to ensure that foster carers feel confident and equipped for the role.
Ollie points out that NFA offers support and advice to overcome barriers such as health and safety: “Where we would help you think about mitigations for more dangerous areas that neither farmer nor NFA would want children in. Normally these mitigations are simple measures such as making certain areas out of bounds, fencing off slurry lagoons and keeping certain doors securely shut and/or locked.”
Both he and NFA management would like to reassure the rural community that they do have foster carers from all walks of life and welcome applications from all.
A call to action for farming families
We believe that fostering is a natural extension of farming life. Just as farmers care for their livestock and land, they can also provide a nurturing home for children who need love, stability, and encouragement. We are calling on farming families across Wales to consider whether they could offer a safe and supportive environment for a child in need.
If you’re a farmer - or know a family member who might be interested in fostering, now is the perfect time to explore the opportunity. With financial support, professional guidance, and the chance to make a real difference in a child's life, fostering could be one of the most rewarding decisions a farming family could make.
For more information on fostering with the National Fostering Agency, visit their website - www.nfa.co.uk/national-fostering-agency/office/wales/ or reach out to a local representative. Farming and fostering - two worlds that, together, can change lives.
Oliver Roberts, NFA Wales - Tel: 07587 100784 or email:
