The South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust organised an appreciation event for kinship foster carers at Starfish Café in Bangor. The gathering took place during Kinship Foster Care Celebration Week.

Kinship foster carers attended the morning event to connect with others, drink tea and coffee, and discuss their role in caring for children.

Vicky Allen, a kinship foster carer for four years, described her positive experience. She noted initial apprehension but encouraged others to pursue it with available support and training.

Allen credited the Fostering Network Team and her social worker Shawneen for assistance. She said the role enhanced her understanding of neurodiversity.

Gary and Daria Gates from Neurodiversity Spark spoke at the event. Their organisation supports neurodivergence awareness and inclusion in workplaces.

Sarah Moore, principal social worker at the South Eastern Trust, stated the event celebrated carers' contributions to children's lives. She highlighted access to support from Neurodiversity Spark and fostering service training.

Moore emphasised that kinship foster carers provide essential safe homes for many children. She stressed the value of carers connecting to share experiences.