The Fostering Network Northern Ireland
We are currently co-implementing the pioneering Fostering Achievement scheme, and we also run forums for children and young people, and produce a newsletter for foster care in Northern Ireland.
Congratulations to Mrs Joan Marshall, a foster carer from Bangor, awarded the MBE in the Queen's Birthday Honours List "for services to foster care in Northern Ireland".
Improving Foster Care Project Northern Ireland
The consultation document Care Matters in Northern Ireland – A Bridge to a Better Future (March 2007) set out a wide range of proposals for improving the outcomes of children in care. Amongst them were proposals re Kinship Care, Autonomy for Foster Carers, Recruitment of Foster Carers and Allowances. The Fostering Network has been commissioned by the DHSSPSNI to take forward work on these and the project has a completion date of 31 July 2009.
Candles and Cocktails Ball 9 May 2008
Over 200 guests attended the Candles and Cocktails Ball on Friday 9 May 2008. Guests included foster carers, social workers, local businesses, Fostering Network personnel and the Foster Carers of the Year nominees and award winners.
Foster Care Fortnight kicked off by Minister of Health
The Foster Care Fortnight kicked off in true style
at Stormont's Sports Pavilion by Minister Michael Mc Gimpsey and
one hundred guests comprising of foster families, social workers
and independent fostering providers.
The launch opened with Kate Lewis, director of the Fostering Network welcoming adults and young people to this very special day. The Fostering Network were delighted to have the Health Minister Michael Mc Gimpsey attend on the day, to openly support and recognize the wonderful work that Foster Carers do as well as acknowledge the need for more carers to look after children in care here in Northern Ireland.
The Foster Carer of the Year Jean Hayley accompanied by her foster daughter Toni West made speeches thanking the fostering services for their support on a daily basis.
A special appearance was made also by the crazy football clown who undertook the position of 'goalie' for the penalty shoot out competition. The shoot out served up quite entertainment with all participants and on lookers thoroughly enjoying the excitement of the occasion. The winner of the penalty shoot out was a young Pascal Sharkey from Derry (Pictured with Minister in photo above).
All guests were treated to refreshments followed by the cutting of a specially made 'football field' cake.
Kate Lewis, director of the Fostering Network in Northern Ireland described the launch as "thrilling" and acknowledged the great turn out of carers who traveled from all over Northern Ireland to be there on the day.
Education Maintenance Awards
Children and young people in foster care are eligible for Education Maintenance Awards.
