Foster Care families in the South Eastern Trust enjoyed a fun filled day at Crawfordsburn Country Park to acknowledge and recognise Foster Care Fortnight.
A Social Worker in the Trust David Trimble and his wife Angela, who have been fostering for the past 20 years, were delighted to join in the celebrations.
David explained how the family are currently fostering a one year old baby and continue to support a young person who is approaching his 20th birthday and has been a part of the Trimble family since he was three days old. “We believe that every child deserves to feel safe and loved,” said David. “As a foster carer, that is something you can give a child who may not have experienced this before.”
David shared how Fostering, “Is without a doubt, the most meaningful thing we have ever done. Every child who comes through your door brings their own story, their own challenges and their own incredible potential. What they need more than anything is someone who believes in them, to offer stability, kindness and patience. You don’t need to be perfect – just present, compassionate and willing to listen,” said David.
“If you’ve ever thought about fostering, take the next step. You will definitely make a difference in a child’s life which you and they will always remember.”
Acknowledging the importance of Foster Carers, Head of Service, Fostering and Adoption in the South Eastern Trust, Nuala Hanna added, “Foster Care Fortnight is an opportunity to celebrate and say thank you to our dedicated Foster Carers. We really did have a wonderful time at Crawfordsburn Country Park and it was great to see everyone smiling, relaxing and enjoying time together. We put the fun day on as a small way to say a big thank you to our amazing foster carers for the love, patience, and unwavering support they give every day.”
Nuala continued, “Within Northern Ireland, the number of Looked After Children continues to rise year on year. We need to have Foster Carers who can offer these children security and stability while their care plan is being processed.
“If you are thinking about Fostering, go online or speak to a Social Worker. There are many different types of foster care that will suit the needs of you and your family, these include emergency foster care, short breaks, short-term, long-term and supported lodgings.”
If you are interested in Fostering, visit adoptionandfostercare.hscni.net or phone (0800) 0720 137 for further information.
