In her 80s but pledges to continue providing a home
“I HAVE never, ever regretted doing it, it is just the amazing feeling you get when you see a child blossoming and know that you are actually helping” – these are the words of Anne Veitch, a dedicated foster carer from Bangor.
Anne Veitch, who is in her 80s, is marking an incredible 19 years of fostering children in need – and she has no intention of stopping offering a home to children who need her care.
Anne, who received the Excellence in Fostering Award at the recent NI Foster Care Ceremony, is encouraging others to consider fostering by sharing the joy and fulfilment that it brings.
Anne began to foster nearly two decades ago after her own children had grown up and left home. She was inspired by stories of children in need and felt compelled to make a difference.
Despite her initial hesitation, Anne decided to foster and since then, has provided a safe and loving home for around 30 children, helping them overcome many challenges.
In her spare time, if she has any!, Anne loves to paint and has many art pieces throughout her home.
Reflecting on her fostering journey, Anne said “I kept on seeing these articles in the paper about children with nowhere to go. I had such a happy childhood that I just felt I should do something. Mind you, I thought about it for three years on and off. It’s not a hobby.
“The most rewarding thing is probably when a child comes to you very withdrawn and if you can get that child to open up and smile, it’s an incredible feeling. Some of these children have been through dreadful traumas and getting them to smile and relax is very rewarding.”.
Anne fondly recalls one particularly touching moment when a previously withdrawn teenager, after spending time in her care, approached her in the kitchen one day. “She just came in, put her arms around me, and said, ‘Thank you.’ I didn’t know what she was thanking me for, but that was nice. That was good.”
Over the years, Anne has seen many of the children in her care go on to thrive as young adults, gaining independence, pursuing education and building careers.
“It’s lovely to see their resilience. When they get to eighteen, nineteen, get a job, go to university, or move into their own accommodation, it’s great.”
Even after 19 years, Anne has no plans to stop fostering. Currently, she continues to care for two girls who have been with her for many years, one of whom first came to Anne’s home at just six years old.
“They’re like your family now, I wouldn’t stop and leave them, I couldn’t.”
Anne’s message to others considering fostering is simple: “Just do it. It’s so rewarding, and the impact you can have on a child’s life is immeasurable.”
Anne’s dedication and compassion are a shining example of the powerful difference Foster Carers can make.
The South Eastern Trust is always in need of more Foster Carers to help provide children with the support, love and stability they need. If you are interested in Fostering, please contact (0800) 0720 137 or visit www.adoptionandfostercare.hscni.net
