We are urgently seeking individuals, couples and families who feel they may be able to open their hearts and homes to children and young people in foster care, to reach out to us today.

Right now there are almost 6,000 children and young people in care, with less than 5,000 foster carers. Fostering is one of the most fulfilling roles you can have because, as a foster parent, you have the opportunity to shape and improve a young person's life. By being a foster carer you can help a child or young person in countless ways, by making them feel safe, secure and valued. There is no greater joy than bringing happiness to a child, a sense of belonging and helping them to dream dreams.

Some of the main requirements to foster include;

• You must be over 25.
• You must have a spare bedroom.
• You must be willing to complete a fostering assessment and undergo background and medical checks.
• If you have any children, the youngest must be at least 3 years of age.
• Have time to offer a child in need.
• Are open to a range of ages and children from all backgrounds.

Supports for our Foster Carers include:

• 24/7/365 on call support.
• A dedicated support social worker.
• Ongoing training.
• Financial supports.
• Access to a multidisciplinary team.
• Fun Family events and Foster Carer events.
• Foster Carer, Foster Children and Birth Children support groups.
• IFCA membership.
• A Foster Carer Ambassador Board.
• Paid Respite.
• A Family orientated community of Foster Carers and Professionals.
• Education supports.

If you feel you wish to find out more you can contact us by email: info@orchardfostering.ie; please include your name, phone number and a suitable time for a call. Or you can call us directly on 01 6275713.