Andi's Story

A young mum who experienced domestic abuse has shared her gratitude for the woman who helped change her life through the Barnardo’s Parent and Child Foster Care scheme.

After fleeing an abusive relationship and discovering she was pregnant, Andi* felt overwhelmed. A domestic abuse charity told her about Barnardo’s Parent and Child fostering, which offers safe, supportive homes for new parents and their babies. Determined to keep her child and prove she could care for her, she spoke to Social Services and was introduced to Laura.

Two days after baby Isla* was born, Laura visited them in hospital. Andi and Isla moved in with Laura and her husband Tom for three months and their connection has remained strong ever since.

“In the early days of Isla’s life Laura was like a mother to me and still is today. I can’t thank her and Tom enough. My daughter would not be in my care if it was not for them.

Over the past decade, Laura and Tom have supported seven mums and babies through Barnardo’s. A retired teacher, Laura felt her experience could be used to support young parents.

“Barnardo’s has given us fantastic training and ongoing support, and we’ve also learned so much from other foster carers across the UK.”

Helen Browne, Head of Barnardo’s Fostering and Adoption NI, said: “Parent and child fostering helps keep families together by giving new parents the support they need. We’re looking for caring adults who can share their experience and offer a safe space to those who need it most.”

To find out more, visit Parent and child fostering | Barnardo's or email BFANI@barnardos.org.uk.
*Names have been changed to protect identities.