Giving children a real chance through fostering

By Daniel O’Neill

Nicola and John decided to take a leap of faith and applied with Fostering First Ireland in 2022.

The young couple who already had two children aged 6 and 11 decided that because Nicola was home full-time because of the pandemic, now was the time to foster like they had always dreamed of doing.

For a time they had no idea when another child would enter their lives, but the second they got a call about a newborn due in a few days, they said yes.

10 months later they found out her little brother was on the way, and knew they had to keep the pair together.

The couple said: “We love kids and the happiness they bring. The moment the first foster child came through the door, our lives changed completely.

“These kids come into your life, and you find strength you never knew you had.”

Speaking about the siblings they took in, Nicola added: “Keeping siblings together in foster care is something very special. It’s so lovely to see their bond and relationship grow.

“It’s also so good for our own children. Fostering has taught them empathy, kindness, and responsibility,” Nicola added.

When asked if the couple finds it overwhelming how their family doubled in size from 2 to 4 kids, they stressed that it was a joy. and that it was the best kind of busy.

One of the couples' favourite parts of fostering is the little moments, watching the kids express love in small ways.

“Seeing our foster daughter kiss her little brother on the cheek is pure magic,” they say.

The couple also went on to thank Fostering First Ireland (FFI) for supporting the couple through their fostering journey through monthly support groups and therapy sessions.

They stressed that throughout the journey they were never alone. “There’s a number in FFI to call 24/7, 365 days a year. Even though we’ve never had to use it, knowing it’s there a great comfort,” they said.

Currently there is a massive need for more foster carers in Ireland, particularly those willing to take in siblings, older children and those with additional needs. Without more foster families, there is a risk of siblings being separated, making the already distressing situation even more heartbreaking.

While fostering comes with its own trials and tribulations, the rewards far outweigh them. Not only are you giving children a stable, secure home but you also give them a loving family. More families like Nicola and John’s are needed to step forward and make a difference.

Nicola and John suggest that if anyone is considering fostering that they should go to FFI. “You won’t be disappointed. The support is incredible. You’re not just a number; everyone knows your name and your family. It feels like home.”

For more information visit fosteringfirstireland.ie or call 01-4171944.