Northern Ireland is facing a critical shortage of foster carers as the number of children in care reaches a record high, according to the Department of Health (DoH).
As of March, 4,287 children and young people were in care, the highest figure since 1995. This increasing demand, coupled with a declining number of foster carers, has created significant pressure on the system, as reported by the Fostering Network.
"We are not really keeping up with the level of recruitment that we need to see to ensure that every child who becomes looked after has the right opportunity to be placed with a fostering family," said Sarah Thomas, chief executive of the Fostering Network.
Beverly Craig, who has fostered 14 children over nearly 24 years, described the experience as an "emotional rollercoaster" but immensely rewarding. "There isn't one that has come through our door that my husband and I weren't able to love very much and take them like our own," she stated.
Despite the challenges, including the 24/7 commitment required, Craig emphasized the profound joy of fostering. She advised that prospective carers need the capacity to love other people's children as their own, with the rest falling into place naturally.
Colin Jamieson, another foster carer, suggested that negative press and a lack of public understanding might deter potential carers. He highlighted the vulnerability of children in care and their need for supportive adults.
Hilary Armstrong, operations manager at Barnardo's, pointed to the rising cost of living as a significant barrier for families considering fostering. While financial support is available, Armstrong also noted societal shifts, such as young adult children remaining at home longer, which can affect the availability of space and capacity for fostering.
Nationally, England has seen a 17% increase in children in care between 2015 and 2025, and Wales saw a 26% rise over the same period. Scotland, however, experienced a 23% decrease.
The DoH acknowledged the pressures and stated its commitment to making fostering an attractive option. Initiatives include uplifts in care allowances and the development of a new regulatory framework. However, implementing these plans is challenging given the department's projected deficit of between £800 million and £1 billion for the current financial year.