From:Department of Children, Disability and Equality

Minister for Children, Disability and Equality, Norma Foley has welcomed the success of National Fostering Awareness Month, an initiative of Tusla Fostering who are hosting a range of events throughout the month of June to recognise the value of fostering in Ireland.

National Fostering Awareness Month highlights the invaluable work that foster carers do for children right across the State, demonstrating how rewarding it is to foster a child in Ireland, whilst also highlighting the need for more foster carers in our communities.

Minister Foley participated in an information session and panel discussion on fostering awareness in Leinster House, attended by TDs, senators, foster carers, peer support workers and social workers.

Tusla Fostering have run other events nationwide so that people can hear more about what it means to be involved in fostering, how to become a foster carer, and about the positive effect foster carers have on the children in their care.

The events included Tusla foster families coming together to create a piece of sand art at Streedagh beach in Co. Sligo containing one thousand hearts to acknowledge all foster carers who open their hearts and their home to children and young people who need support.

Ireland is among the world leaders in foster care, and at the end of March 2026, there were 5,822 children in care in Ireland, with 5,064 - 87% - living with foster families.

“National Fostering Awareness Month has showcased howfoster carers and their families play an invaluable role in the lives of some of the most vulnerable children in the State.

“Right now, there are some 3,800 foster carers across the country providing a safe and loving home to over 5,000 children. I want to say thank you to each and every one of you. Your dedication changes lives.

“All around the country, in urban and rural areas, there are still children who need a loving place to call home – whether for a short period, or something longer-term.

“If you are thinking of considering fostering, or would like to learn more, there has never been a better time to start having that conversation.”

Nationally, the number of new foster carers has increased year-on-year over the past three years. There were 173 new foster carers approved in 2023, 210 approved in 2024 and 223 approved in 2025, bringing the total to 606 over the three-year period. However, new foster carers are always required to make up for the natural annual turnover, which is common in fostering internationally.

Anyone interested in becoming a foster carer is encouraged to contact Tusla on 1800 226 771, or visitfostering.ie.