AN Alcester foster carer who opens her heart and her home to some of the most vulnerable children in the country has helped nearly 30 youngsters in just four years.
Finuala Kelly is a full-time foster carer with the Barnardo’s West Midlands Family Placement Service and has supported 29 young people aged eight to 18 since she began fostering four years ago.
Known as Nuala, she specialises in supporting vulnerable children and young people, including those who have been involved in the criminal justice system or sexually exploited, and although it’s not always easy, she has never thought about giving it up.
“I foster young people from all different walks of life, from those who have been caught up in crime and substance misuse to those who have been abused and sexually exploited. However, I’ve never had anyone being abusive or threatening towards me, and nothing’s ever been stolen,” she said. “They appreciate the fact that someone’s trying to help them and that they’re in a safe environment.”
A recent survey by Barnardo’s found 78 per cent of West Midlands children said having a parent or guardian who believes in them is important for a positive future – and Nuala hopes her support does just that.
The 56-year-old said: “I’m a very strong person but sometimes it breaks my heart when I learn what has happened to some of these young people.
“A lot of their problems can be traced back to what happened in their childhood. They ended up in care for a reason but they don’t go around with a message on their forehead saying what they’ve suffered and experienced.
“It’s hard work but there’s so much we can do to help young people in care.”
Most of Nuala’s placements are short-term but she has managed to help young people into college and sports clubs, and the mum-of-two also keeps in touch with several of them on a regular basis.
This week, during Barnardo’s Fostering and Adoption Week, the children’s charity is asking people to consider fostering as the country faces a shortfall of around 9,000 foster carers nationwide.
To find out more visit http://bit.ly/2bQqH4U or call 0800 0277 280.
