On the 10th of April, we join the world in marking National Siblings Day, a time to honour the unique and unbreakable bonds between brothers and sisters. For children in care, these bonds are especially precious, providing comfort, stability, and connection in the midst of change. At Lighthouse Fostering, we are proud to celebrate and support foster carers who are keeping siblings together, ensuring these lifelong relationships remain intact.
Fostering siblings is a deeply rewarding role. It allows children to thrive within the familiar bond of family, offering emotional support and shared memories that carry them through life’s challenges. Keeping siblings together not only honours their connection but also fosters a sense of identity, comfort, and companionship.
A Foster Carer’s Story
To highlight the rewards of fostering siblings, we are sharing the heartfelt experiences of Scott Fitzgerald and Andrew Enerva, inspiring foster carers at Lighthouse Fostering. Scott and Andrew have been fostering two brothers, aged 12 and 10, since 2020. Here’s what they had to say about their incredible journey:
“My husband and I decided we wanted to foster five years ago and joined the Lighthouse family in August 2020. We instantly knew we wanted to foster siblings; we knew that we could be foster carers who would work hard to keep siblings together no matter how challenging things might become.
We are now foster carers for two perfect young brothers aged 12 and 10. The boys both have very complex individual needs, and at times I might think, please stop play fighting, bickering or arguing, but that’s a normal, healthy sibling relationship!
The love that the boys have between them is clear for anyone to see. In the early months of us living together as a family of four, it was clear that them just being together made it much easier for them to settle with us.
The fact the boys could share the experience together, if one had a bad day at school, the other would give him a cuddle and say, ‘You can do this; I am proud of you.’ Their emotional bond was very clear, and they have always supported each other in their own way.
They both openly talk about shared memories together, which is so important. It’s part of their identity, comfort, and companionship. Together, this brings past experiences into their present circumstances.
In a nutshell, we are all very happy together.”
Scott and Andrew’s story is a moving example of how fostering siblings can transform lives—not just for children, but for foster carers too. By keeping brothers and sisters together, they’ve created a family dynamic that celebrates love, resilience, and shared growth.
Why Keeping Siblings Together Matters
For children in care, the bond with their siblings can be their most significant relationship. Brothers and sisters provide one another with emotional reassurance, continuity, and a sense of belonging. When children are placed together, they’re more likely to settle into their new environment, feel secure, and develop stronger emotional well-being.
At Lighthouse Fostering, we recognise how essential it is to keep siblings together whenever possible. That’s why we are committed to supporting our foster carers in this important role. We offer tailored training, resources, and advice to help carers meet the unique needs of sibling groups while providing a loving and stable home.
Could You Foster Siblings?
Fostering siblings requires patience, understanding, and a willingness to adapt to the unique dynamics of sibling relationships. But as Scott and Andrew’s story shows, the rewards are immeasurable. Seeing siblings comfort and encourage each other, share laughter, and create new memories together is a privilege unlike anything else.
If you have the space in your home and heart to care for siblings, Lighthouse Fostering is here to support you every step of the way. We believe that every child deserves the chance to grow up with their sibling by their side, and we need compassionate individuals and families to help make this possible.
Honouring Foster Carers on National Siblings Day
This National Siblings Day, we want to shine a spotlight on all our incredible foster carers who are making a difference by keeping siblings together. Your dedication, love, and commitment are truly inspiring, and the impact you have on these children’s lives is remarkable.
At Lighthouse Fostering, we’re proud to work alongside such incredible foster carers who help build brighter futures for children in care. Together, we can ensure that the bonds between brothers and sisters remain a source of strength and comfort as they grow.
If you’ve been moved by this story and would like to learn more about fostering siblings, we’d love to hear from you. Your home could be the safe haven that keeps siblings together and helps them thrive.
Happy National Siblings Day from all of us at Lighthouse Fostering!