Each year on April 10th, people across the globe take a moment to recognise and celebrate the unique, lifelong bond shared between siblings. National Siblings Day, which began in the United States, has grown into a worldwide celebration of the love, rivalry, loyalty, and laughter that siblings bring into our lives.
At Vineyard Fostering, this day holds particular significance. Siblings often share not only a family but a life story—one that can include both joyful moments and difficult experiences. For children in care, this bond can become even more vital, offering comfort, familiarity, and a sense of stability when everything else feels uncertain.
The Importance of Keeping Siblings Together
When brothers and sisters enter the foster care system, their connection can provide a much-needed anchor. Being placed together can help reduce trauma, ease the transition into care, and strengthen their emotional resilience. It allows them to support one another and retain a sense of identity and belonging.
Yet, sadly, many sibling groups are separated due to a shortage of foster carers who can care for multiple children at once. These separations can be heart-breaking and can add a layer of trauma to an already challenging situation.
At Vineyard Fostering, we do everything we can to keep siblings together whenever possible. We know from research—and from the voices of young people themselves—that this can make a profound difference in their healing and overall well-being.
When Separation Is Necessary
While we strongly advocate for keeping siblings together, we also recognize that in some cases, separation may be necessary for safeguarding reasons. There may be complex dynamics between siblings due to previous trauma, abuse, or behavioural concerns that mean it is not safe—or in the best interests of each child—to be placed together.
However, these situations are the exception rather than the rule. In many cases, siblings can—and should—remain together, and it’s only the lack of suitable placements that stands in the way.
How You Can Help
If you’ve ever considered fostering, we invite you to think about the powerful impact you could have as a carer who is open to looking after siblings. Whether it’s two brothers, a brother and sister, or a larger sibling group, your home could be the place where they continue to grow together, laugh together, and support one another.
You don’t need to be perfect—you just need a big heart, a spare room (or two), and the willingness to learn and grow alongside the children in your care. Vineyard Fostering will support you every step of the way with training, guidance, and a community of carers around you.
This National Siblings Day…
We celebrate the unbreakable bond between brothers and sisters—and we renew our commitment to keeping those bonds strong whenever we can. Every child deserves to grow up with love and connection, and for many, that connection starts with a sibling.
If you’d like to learn more about fostering siblings or becoming a carer with Vineyard Fostering, please get in touch—we’d love to hear from you.