A dedicated foster carer from Powys, who has devoted 18 years to supporting vulnerable children, has been recognised with a prestigious MBE in the New Year Honours list.
A Lifetime of Care and Commitment
Mair Wilson, who fosters alongside her husband Roy near Llandrindod Wells, described feeling stunned and humbled by the royal honour. "I keep on wanting to pinch myself, I'm going to wake up in a minute," she admitted. "It's really lovely. I'm very honoured and very humbled as well, I can't believe it."
The couple's remarkable service spans nearly two decades with Powys County Council. They have provided a stable home for 13 children on long-term placements, alongside offering short-term, respite and emergency care for many others. Mair emphasises that fostering is a true family effort, involving their own children Nia, Rhys, and Dale, as well as close friends.
The Challenges and Profound Rewards of Fostering
While acknowledging the role can be challenging, especially as many children have experienced trauma, Mair Wilson is quick to highlight its profound rewards. "When you see them when they are working, or when they have got families of their own, and you see how they are with their own children - and they are a really wholesome family - that is your reward," she explained.
This family spirit was vividly displayed over the recent Christmas period. At her daughter's home, they hosted a house full of 17 people on Christmas Day, which swelled to 24 on Boxing Day as many of their former foster children returned to visit.
The Key Ingredient: Belief
Reflecting on what makes an effective foster carer, Mair pinpointed one essential quality. "The thing you need most as a foster carer is belief. You need to believe that they can achieve," she stated. "If you believe in them, they start to believe in themselves and that's when you start making progress."
She also paid tribute to the invaluable support provided by Powys County Council's Fostering Team, saying, "We couldn't wish for better really."
The recognition for Mair and Roy continues, as they are also set to receive a Silver Kite award from Powys County Council later this month in honour of their outstanding fostering work.
For those inspired by their story, Powys County Council encourages people to consider becoming a foster carer. You can find more information on the dedicated website, email fostering@powys.gov.uk, or call 0800 22 30 627 to begin an enquiry.
