Ballymena couple champion short break foster care for children with disabilities
“It gives you a spark and a spring in your step, it’s just amazing.”
A Ballymena couple are encouraging others to consider short break foster care for children with disabilities, highlighting the rewarding impact it has had on their own lives.
David and Joy Wright provide short break foster care for children with disabilities, offering families vital support whilst giving young people a safe and welcoming environment.
With demand for foster carers continuing to rise, they are encouraging others to open their homes – and their hearts – to children in need of support.
The Wrights began their fostering journey after seeing an appeal on social media for carers for children with special needs.
“As someone with a nursing background, I felt I could make a difference and help manage any challenges that may arise,” Joy explained.
David says their differing strengths play an important role in their approach to fostering, and he prides himself on being the entertainer of the duo:
“Joy takes care of the practical side, while I focus on keeping the children entertained. When she’s had a busy day preparing meals or getting them ready, I’m able to step in,” he said.
Joy added that the experience has been hugely rewarding for both:
“If you have that little seed in your head, go for it.
“It’s the best thing you’ll ever do, it’s been wonderful to see the children progress,” said Joy.
Across Northern Ireland, there are currently 109 children and young people, from birth to age 17, with a range of physical and intellectual disabilities, autism and complex health needs, waiting to be matched with a Short breaks foster carer.
Northern Trust Director of Children’s Services and Executive Director of Social Work, Maura Dargan, said: “Short break carers make a real difference in the lives of children with disabilities and provide parents and carers with essential opportunities to rest and recharge.
“Many people are surprised to learn that they may already have the qualities needed to be a short break carer. Patience, kindness and a willingness to learn are usually the most important factors – you don’t need prior experience.
“Short break care offers a different way to help. It can often fit around family life and work commitments, while still have a lasting impact on a child or young person.”
Who can be a Short Breaks carer for Children with Disabilities?
- Married/ co-habiting couples or single people
- People from all religious, cultural, social and economic backgrounds
- People with or without existing children
- Anyone aged over 21; there is no upper age limit provided you are healthy and have the energy to meet the needs of the child/ young person placed
- Heterosexual or LGBTQI+
- You do not need to own your own home but must have a spare bedroom where the child can stay
- You do not need any specific qualifications or experience
- Carers are asked to commit to providing a minimum of one or two overnights per month; but often choose to provide more regular support to children and families on a fortnightly or weekly basis
If you would like to find out more about becoming a Short Breaks foster carer call HSC NI Foster Care on 0800 0720 137 or log onto https://adoptionandfostercare.hscni.net/foster-care/short-breaks-CWD/
26th June 2026
