'Children deserve a loving environment in which they can thrive’

The Western Health and Social Care Trust (WHSCT) is currently recruiting foster carers who could “make a difference to the lives of children”.

The Trust, which is seeking people who are prepared to foster on both a long and short term basis, said: “Every child deserves a loving environment in which they can thrive.”

The WHSCT has the third largest number of children in care in the North of Ireland. 82% of these children live in foster care. This equates to approximately 688 children and young people.

It said: “We need more foster carers so as children can be placed with families where they can be safe, nurtured and loved, this would help these children grow and develop.

“There are many ways that you can make a difference to a child’s life through fostering. Whether you can offer a child a loving home for the short or long term, or provide short breaks both for planned and emergency situations, you can make a valuable impact on a child’s life.

“Foster carers tell us that it is both rewarding and fulfilling to see a child grow and develop, with the knowledge that the care and love they have provided, in whatever capacity, has made a positive contribution in a child’s journey through life.”

The Trust’s Fostering Recruitment and Assessment Team is holding an information event in the Guildhall, on Thursday, April 20, from 6.00pm to 7.30pm. To register for the event, please email: info@fostering.hscni.net or call: 0800 0720 137.

The Trust’s Fostering Team will be available at the event and will be available to answer any questions people may have.

During the evening, people will be able to find out more about fostering; to talk to staff from the fostering team who can answer any questions you may have; and to find out about the process involved or the support on offer.

Participants will also have the opportunity to speak with foster carers who will share their inspiring stories of caring. They will also be able to find out more about what can work for them. There are a range of opportunities that can work with individual lifestyles, including short breaks, emergency, and long-term fostering.

Catherine McKevitt, Head of Fostering and Adoption Services at the Western Trust said: “Being a foster carer can be a really rewarding and enriching experience.

“People often think they can’t foster because they are single, work, or are too old, but none of these things matter. People from all walks of life can foster – don’t rule yourself out.

“If you are resilient, flexible and have the energy, time, commitment and feel that you could help a child to grow and develop through your care and support, then come along to our information events to find out more and we can help answer any queries you might have.”