A brand-new regional campaign has been introduced across Northern Ireland to recruit short breaks foster carers for children with disabilities.

Announcing the initiative, Health Minister Mike Nesbitt stated: "This is the first time short breaks for Children with Disabilities has been promoted on a regional basis and included in regional HSC branding and I am delighted that we have been able to achieve this through the additional investment I approved for Children with Disabilities services. "Short Breaks foster carers play a vital role in supporting families by welcoming children with disabilities into their homes, providing parents and carers with essential opportunities to rest and recharge. Regular contact with a Short Breaks foster carer can be an incredibly enjoyable and positive experience for a child – offering them opportunities to have fun, build their confidence and make new friends while offering families a crucial source of support to help them continue to care for their child.

"Short Breaks foster care is a flexible and accessible way to get involved and can be accommodated alongside existing work and family commitments. Typically, Short Breaks foster carers are asked to provide one or two nights per month, although many choose to offer additional support. Over time, these arrangements can create strong and positive relationships between carers and families. This campaign aims to encourage more individuals to come forward and consider making a valuable contribution to families within their local communities."