Northern Ireland choir Emerald Melodies has won a nationwide singing competition for foster carers called the Big Sing Off held at The Titanic Centre in Belfast this weekend.
The home win for the choir made up of staff, foster carers and looked after children from Foster Care Associates (FCA), celebrates the camaraderie and community that comes with working with looked after children and young people.
A total of 16 choirs from across the UK, made up of more than 200 staff, foster carers and children from FCA’s 50 regional offices travelled to Northern Ireland for the ‘Aquatic’ themed event, the culmination of months of hard work by all the teams. It is the first time the event has gone on tour, and for some of the foster children, it was their first experience of flying.
Feargal O’Keefe, regional manager for FCA Northern Ireland, said: “It was a wonderful day, and I was delighted that this year it was held in Belfast with so many foster carers and children attending. I was overwhelmed by the talent of all the children and young people who took part – I think there are certainly some stars of the future to look out for!”
Traditional Irish dancers, Celtic Storm also performed at the landmark event.
The home win for the choir made up of staff, foster carers and looked after children from Foster Care Associates (FCA), celebrates the camaraderie and community that comes with working with looked after children and young people.
A total of 16 choirs from across the UK, made up of more than 200 staff, foster carers and children from FCA’s 50 regional offices travelled to Northern Ireland for the ‘Aquatic’ themed event, the culmination of months of hard work by all the teams. It is the first time the event has gone on tour, and for some of the foster children, it was their first experience of flying.
Feargal O’Keefe, regional manager for FCA Northern Ireland, said: “It was a wonderful day, and I was delighted that this year it was held in Belfast with so many foster carers and children attending. I was overwhelmed by the talent of all the children and young people who took part – I think there are certainly some stars of the future to look out for!”
Traditional Irish dancers, Celtic Storm also performed at the landmark event.
Jim Cockburn, executive chairman, founder and owner of FCA, said: “Over the years, this incredible event has become a significant highlight of the FCA’s calendar and brings together foster carers, looked after children and young people and FCA staff in an exciting initiative designed to give everyone an unforgettable, fun and inspiring experience. All of the choirs put in tremendous performances and it was great win for Northern Ireland in their home city.”
If you think you have the patience, commitment and enthusiasm to foster a child or young person, have a spare bedroom and a willingness to learn, contact Foster Care Associates on 0800 023 4330 or visit www.thefca.co.uk.
FCA welcomes applications from single parents, married and co-habiting couples as well as same sex couples.
