A Belfast couple who have spent the past three decades as foster carers have told how they have "truly felt like we made a difference" to some children's lives.
Colin and Sharon Jamison have fostered more than 20 children, including siblings and children with disabilities.
They are sharing their story in a bid to highlight Barnardo’s January fostering campaign and encourage more people to become foster carers.
After a friend recommended fostering to the couple, they went to a local Barnardo’s information evening to find out more and got the opportunity to listen to other carers’ experiences.
Since then they have cared for children with a wide range of needs, including young people with challenging behaviours, teenagers and those with life-limiting disabilities.
Mr Jamison said as a foster carer "you have to look past what you’re seeing on the exterior and find the young child".
"We’ve had children who have had multiple carers before us and have lost their identity along the way," he said.
"It’s important for us to give these young people the security they need."
While he admits it is not always easy, he said "you simply cannot put a price on supporting a child and the difference you get to see in them".
The couple have a special memory from a time caring for a young person with severe disabilities and unable to communicate. They were told she was physically unable to express any emotions.
But after months of supporting her, they experienced her first ever smile.
Mr Jamison said it was "the most special moment and we truly felt like we made a difference in her life".
"It was such a huge step, both for us and for her," he said.
"It felt like she had got her identity back."
Michele Janes from Barnardo's NI said it is "wonderful to work alongside foster carers like Colin and Sharon and to see the huge difference they can make to a child or young person's life".
"Barnardo’s has more than 100 years of experience finding families for vulnerable children and we have a real need for more foster carers in Northern Ireland," she said.
"We welcome foster carers from all walks of life and you could be suitable if you are aged 21 or over, have a spare bedroom and have the time and commitment to care for a child or young person."
To find out more about Barnardo’s fostering campaign, see www.barnardos.org.uk/fostering-week or call 0800 0277 280.
