“These children don’t need superheroes, they just need ordinary people with a bit of extra room in their hearts and a stable home.”
Boxes of arts and crafts, bundles of books and stacks of classic board games fill the Lisburn home of Foster Carers, Ruth and Philip who welcomed a little girl into their family in August 2025.
The couple began their fostering journey in March 2025 after deciding they had both space and the love to share. From the very beginning, they describe the process with HSC NI Foster Care as “so supportive”.
Ruth explained, “We had been thinking about fostering for some time. The South Eastern Trust Foster Care Team were lovely right from the start. From that first phone call to the home visits, our Social Worker was there to help us get ready. We were approved to be Foster Carers in August and our little girl came in September.”
The couple say the six-year-old, who has a passion for crafting, “all day long,” is now part of the family, alongside their energetic, adorable Cavapoo, Buddy. The two have quickly become best friends.
Ruth said, “She loves arts and crafts, reading and especially animals. Her favourite is a Red Panda and she talks so much of wanting to become a Vet. She just loves being around people and has a very soft heart.”
Since becoming approved Foster Carers, Ruth and Philip have praised the dedicated support. “Our Supervising Social Worker is just a phone call away. Whether it is a quick question on paperwork or needing a bit of emotional support after a tough day, we know we have got a team in our corner.”
For a person or couple who may be considering becoming a Foster Carer, Philip added, “Go and ask the questions. There are so many ways to foster and make a difference. Just take the first step.
“You realise that you have the capacity to love a child you did not know a month ago just as fiercely as if they’d been there forever. It has changed our hearts for the better. We now call ourselves the three musketeers.”
South Eastern Trust Head of Service for Fostering and Adoption, Nuala Hanna commented “Ruth and Philip’s story is a wonderful example of the difference Foster Carers can make. Their commitment, compassion and willingness to open their hearts and home is exactly what children in care need to thrive.”
“We are always looking for more people like Ruth and Philip who can offer children a safe and nurturing home. Fostering can be life-changing, not only for a child, but for the Carers themselves.”
HSC NI Foster Care are hosting two special child specific virtual information events in March, featuring eight children from across Northern Ireland who urgently need foster homes.
At the virtual events, you can hear directly from the people who know the children personally and learn about their individual personalities, interests and needs.
For further details about the children who will be profiled and how to register, please visit –