Fair Ways Birth Children Win Prestigious Award

Fair Ways is incredibly thrilled and honoured to announce that Levi, age 8 and Zac, age 5 have won the ‘Outstanding Contribution by Sons and Daughters’ Award at the 2022 Fostering Excellence Awards, held by The Fostering Network.

The award celebrates children and young people under 18 who go over and above in the support of their families and foster siblings.

Levi and Zac’s family started their fostering journey with Fair Ways back in 2015, and over the last 7 years the boys have mainly welcomed unaccompanied asylum-seeking children into their home. At such young ages, the boys have opened their home and hearts to several children and young people from a multitude of different cultures and backgrounds.

Throughout their journey, they have been accepting and inclusive of their foster siblings whilst continually embracing the true spirit of fostering. Whether sharing a bedroom so that their family can help other young people in need, or sharing their toys and friends, Levi and Zac have played a crucial role in the lives of many young people.

Despite often being much younger than those who come to stay, the siblings are great at making children and young people feel more at ease in their new surroundings, all whilst overcoming any language barriers very quickly.

Throughout their fostering journey, they have managed to build lasting relationships with the young people who have come to stay with them, all whilst navigating their new routines and supporting their family.

Natalie Merriman (Head of Fostering at Fair Ways) said “The care and compassion shown by Levi and Zac throughout their fostering journey is nothing short of amazing. Their willingness and enthusiasm in welcoming children and young people into their home with open arms, all whilst learning about different cultures and backgrounds is truly inspirational.

Sons and daughters of foster carers play a crucial role in successful fostering placements, and we’re just so thankful for, and proud of these wonderful boys in all that they’ve done for their foster siblings and family.”

Welcoming a new addition to the family is an exciting and often nerve-wracking experience for families, with many waiting until their sons and daughters have moved out however, Levi and Zac and the thousands of other foster siblings throughout the UK show us every day just how enlightening, valuable and inspirational birth children are, and how positively they can impact the lives of other young people.