Foster siblings

Debbie and Brian are one of the couples in Lancashire who have fostered a brother and sister:

“Before we even went to panel, we had been matched with a brother and sister aged 7 and 8. We were excited to welcome them into our home and family as we already have our biological children who were 18 and 19. It was a really good match and they fitted straight in like they had always been part of the family.

“It has been good to keep them together as they are their own little support system and know what each other are going through. They have been with us just over a year now and even though caring for siblings does come with its own set of challenges, knowing that you are keeping them together helps you overcome these. The feeling that you know you are giving these children a safe and forever home is like no other.”

Jonathan has fostered three sets of brothers and sisters:

“As foster carers for Lancashire County council for the last 11 years, my wife and I recognise that it’s important to help keep sibling groups that come into care together. A young person's life is uncertain when they are removed from their parents or relatives, maybe even having to move schools, having to adapt to new ways of doing things with someone you now live with, and you don’t know what to expect.

“Having a brother or sister there with them, allows the transition to be shared between them as the constant thing that’s always been. Young people usually cope better when they are together. It eliminates the worry and tensions of wondering where their siblings are, how are they being treated, will I see them again.

“We have managed over the past 10 years to keep 3 sets of siblings together, by offering a place that enables them to be together, share together, laugh together and most important, just be together!”