Could You Change a Child’s Future? 3,514 children in care as urgent foster appeal launched across NI
- Love Ballymena
- 3 days ago
- 3 min read
More than 3,500 children and young people are currently living in foster care across Northern Ireland — and the number is rising year on year.
Behind that statistic are real lives, real stories and children like eight-year-old Kaiden, who is waiting for a place to call home.
There are currently 3,514 children and young people in foster care in Northern Ireland. As demand continues to grow, HSC NI Foster Care says the need for more foster carers who can provide a safe and nurturing home has never been greater.
To help address that need, HSC NI Foster Care is hosting two dedicated child-specific virtual information events on Tuesday 10 March and Thursday 12 March.
The events will feature eight children from across Northern Ireland who urgently need foster homes, offering prospective carers the opportunity to hear directly from those who know the children best and to learn more about their individual personalities, interests and needs.
In the Northern area, eight-year-old Kaiden is among those waiting. He is described as a vibrant, energetic, caring and loving child. Those interested can find out more about him during the virtual event on Tuesday 10 March from 7.30pm to 9pm.
His full profile is available at:
Encouraging anyone considering fostering to attend, the Northern Trust’s Head of Service for Children’s Services, Julie Bell, said:
“It’s vital that we do everything we can to ensure everyone gets the start in life that they deserve.
“Our aim is to give all children a brighter future, regardless of their personal history or background. We recognise that opening your heart and home to a child or young person in need is a big decision, but it can be hugely rewarding - and we’ll be there to support you every step of the way.”
Foster carers come from a wide range of backgrounds and bring different skills and qualities to meet the individual needs of each child or young person. HSC NI says that if you are a good listener, patient, understanding and caring, you may already have many of the traits needed to become a foster carer.
Yvonne, a HSC NI foster carer, shared her experience:
“It’s the simple, everyday things we take for granted that mean the most to the children and young people. When a child comes into your home, everything must feel strange for them as it’s a new environment… I just be there for them, listen, help them with school, and encourage them for as long as they’re with me.
“The rewards are amazing. The training and support from the fostering team and help from my family and friends has been invaluable”
HSC NI Foster Care provides ongoing training and development, fostering allowances and 24-hour social work support for approved carers.
In addition to the March child-specific events, HSC NI Foster Care hosts a range of online and in-person information sessions throughout the year across Northern Ireland.
Each month, two virtual drop-in sessions are delivered — one at lunchtime and one in the evening — giving anyone considering fostering the opportunity to learn more about the experience and the support available.
To register for the March information event, call 0800 0720 137 or email hello@adoptionandfostercare.hscni.net
A full events calendar is available at:
Enquiries and applications to foster are welcome from people from all backgrounds — with the hope that more children like Kaiden can find not just a house, but a home.
