HSC NI Foster Care and The Fostering Network co-launched Foster Care Fortnight in the Long Gallery at Parliament Buildings, Stormont. The event drew foster carers, care experienced young people, staff and supporters from across Northern Ireland.

Health Minister Mike Nesbitt attended and addressed the gathering. He recognised the daily work of foster carers in providing safety, stability and care to children in need. Nesbitt thanked foster carers for their commitment, resilience and compassion in challenging circumstances.

Robbie Butler MLA sponsored the event and spoke about his own experience as a foster carer.

Young people with foster care experience shared their stories, joined by a birth child of foster carers and a panel of foster carers.

Performances by young people included a song, tin whistle music, a piano piece and a DJ set.

Kerrylee Weatherall, Director of Children’s Services in Belfast for HSC NI Foster Care, spoke at the launch. She highlighted the everyday acts of care by foster carers and kinship carers. Weatherall noted challenges such as rising costs and complex needs. She called for more people to consider fostering.