Co Down couple open their home to three foster siblings.

Jonathan and Sarah McElroy in County Down are fostering three siblings aged 9, 4 and 2 who moved in November 2023; Barnardo's says the number of children in care in Northern Ireland is now almost 4,200.

Jonathan and Sarah McElroy, a couple from County Down, are raising three foster children who are siblings aged 9, 4 and 2. The children came to live with them in November 2023 after the McElroys were approved as foster carers. The couple had previously provided short breaks for other children and say their families, church and local community have been important supports. Barnardo's provided training and ongoing help as the household adjusted to the new routine. Key facts: - Three siblings, aged 9, 4 and 2, are living with Jonathan (47) and Sarah McElroy (50) in County Down. - The children moved into the McElroys' home in November 2023 after the couple completed approval through Barnardo's. - The couple had experience providing short breaks to children before taking on the sibling group. - Barnardo's offered training and continued support, including guidance on managing night waking and helping a withdrawn child feel safe. - Barnardo's said nearly 4,200 children are currently in care in Northern Ireland and highlighted the importance of keeping brothers and sisters together. Summary: The McElroys say the children are settling in and that shared family, church and community ties have helped build a sense of belonging. Barnardo's emphasises keeping siblings together for emotional and practical support and notes the rising number of children in care in Northern Ireland. The organisation has said more foster carers are needed to support sibling placements.