Child and Family Agency is hosting a Fostering Information Event in Rowlagh Community Centre, Clondalkin, at 11.00AM on the 29th of October. Some of the central topics discussed will include the different types of foster care and how they might suit different people and lifestyles, and the need for a diverse range of carers to care for children today.
South Dublin Tusla Foster Carer, Eimir Kennedy, who is originally from Castleknock, will be speaking at the event about her own experiences as a foster carer for the past 12 years. One of the factors that brought Eimir to fostering was her own personal experience of being adopted, “Mam and Dad were amazing and I had a great childhood with great memories, which was something I wanted to pay forward. All children deserve to feel loved, heard and be part of something special.”
“One of the best parts of fostering for me is seeing a child grow in confidence. Happy little people with a secure attachment and living their best life.”
Despite the many positives that come with fostering children, Eimir also has an understanding of some of the more difficult aspects, “there are times in their care journey that can be quite stressful for the child, and you need to help them navigate their way through these situations. Sometimes there can be conflict, but you just need to remember that the child is the important person in these situations and all obstacles can be managed and resolved.”
For anyone considering fostering, Eimir says, “fostering is about opening your heart and home. Remembering that you are the voice of the child and are there to make them feel secure and listened to. To make them feel part of your family, somewhere they are free to play, laugh and feel safe.”
There are many types of foster care such as, short-term, long-term, emergency placements, respite fostering, and other supports for young people who need them. This means there is a choice of ways to foster, something to suit your skills, your life stage and your family dynamic. Tusla is seeking foster carers from all walks of life and communities to help ensure young people can stay connected to their communities.
The first step in the fostering journey is to speak to someone on the Tusla Fostering team to explore if fostering is the right move for you and your family. For more information visit fostering.ie, call freephone 1800 226 771 or email tusla.fostering@tusla.ie.
