Barnardo’s NI helps to light up children’s lives

As part of its annual Foster Week, Barnardo’s has revealed that 100 new foster families are desperately needed across Northern Ireland.

Barnardo’s NI Director, Lynda Wilson said: “We believe that everyone has the right to a happy childhood but without a mum or dad to care for them, children who are in need of foster carers may never experience the love and affection they need to grow and so many of us take for granted.”

“Finding foster homes for these youngsters will light up not only their lives, but also the lives of their future parents too.”

“We want people who are considering becoming foster cares to know that we are here to support them as they decide to give this gift to those children who need it most.”

“We want Fostering Week to mean more people take a moment to think, ‘Could I foster?’ Having a loving home makes the world of difference to every child.”

Sarah and Tom, who fostered a brother and sister with Barnardo’s, last year, said: “We are so glad we fostered, the children have filled our lives with love, fun and laughter, the odd trying time as well, but we wouldn’t change a thing.”

Barnardo’s NI has been providing a fostering service for over 30 years and prides itself on the support it offers to foster carers. Its aim is to place children in long term foster care, but its foster carers also offer short break care.

For further information, contact (028) 9065 2288 or visit www.barnardos.org.uk/fostering