4th September 2026
Ben* is a fit and healthy young man. He has won medals for sprint-running at school sports events. His favourite sport to watch is football and he is a keen Manchester United supporter. Although Ben says he will live with a Liverpool supporter if they like the banter! Ben would like to meet Cristiano Ronaldo someday. He would ask him, “What was it like to grow up in poverty, compared to now?”
Ben enjoys listening to a variety of pop music. His favourite music star is Michael Jackson. He really enjoyed the ‘Michael’ movie, as well as the action and special effects in the Marvel DC and Star Wars movies. In celebration of his 14th birthday, Ben went to the cinema to watch the new Spiderman movie, ‘Brand New Day’.
Ben enjoys school, in particular Maths, French, Technology, and Computers. He likes exploring numbers and finding out how things work. Ben’s school report in June was excellent! Ben is proud of who he is and what he has achieved. He cares deeply for his family, friends and school. He would like to continue to attend his school in the Mourne area. When describing the qualities of a good friend, Ben said, “Someone who is loyal, trustworthy, and has your back”.
During the summer Ben enjoyed trips to the beach, baking in the kitchen, summer schemes, and volunteering. As he approached September, Ben was keen to go shopping for his new school uniform and he has now started 3rd Year.
When thinking about the years ahead, Ben would like to use his savings to buy himself a drum kit and learn how to drum. Having a Scottish Granda, Ben would like to travel to Scotland and see where he grew up but doesn’t fancy eating haggis or wearing a kilt! Ben isn’t sure what he wants to be when he grows up, but he would like to be happy in his work and doing something he likes, probably with computers.
If he could change one thing in the world, Ben would like to eliminate homelessness. He believes everyone should have a place to call home; somewhere they can be loved, valued and made to feel special.
Ben requires long-term foster care until he reaches an age of independence. Ben’s foster carer(s) will receive full training, support and financial allowances.
To find out more about Ben:
Call 0800 0720 137
Email: hello@adoptionandfostercare.hscni.net
Alternatively you may wish to complete an online enquiry form
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New Podcast Episode
In this powerful episode of the Voices of Fostering Podcast, we hear Ben’s story. Listen in to hear why Ben entered care at the age of 8 and what life is like for him now.
A special thank you to Isobel, Ben’s short term foster carer, who shared insight into Ben’s life and is championing our efforts to find him a family.
*Name changed and stock image used to protect child’s identity.