STAR reunites brothers and sisters separated in the care system, through adoption, or kinship care. STAR provides opportunities for regular and quality sibling contact in a unique farmland setting. We have a safe, fun and exhilarating learning environment where children can foster their emotional bonds; this time together can help to overcome the trauma associated with sibling separation. At STAR we maintain and nurture these special sibling relationships by facilitating opportunities for positive shared experiences in our natural, sibling centred, safe spaces.
"Witnessing first hand the amazing and lasting differences we are making here at STAR is truly heartwarming. We are so fortunate to have such an amazing team."
"Star makes a massive difference to the lives of our Star families and I feel privileged to be part of such an amazing team.".
"Star is a very special place. Tuesday volunteer days are always so much fun and it is always so lovely to spend time with all of our volunteer’s.".
"I feel privileged to be part of the kids journey when they visit star and see how they build relationships with each other in the wonderful setting of star.".
"Gordon and I are so privileged to spend time with our lovely families. Who knew collecting hen’s eggs could be such fun!!!".
"Karen and I are so privileged to spend time with our lovely families. Who knew collecting hen’s eggs could be such fun!!!".
"All my life I have worked with animals, and now work with children and dogs. I sometimes bring my dog to Star. It is amazing to see how well the children respond to him and relax in his company. ".
"A brilliant opportunity for families to spend quality time together, have lots of fun and learn new skills."
"From the first time Karen told me what she wanted to achieve, I knew it was something I wanted to be involved in. As a fellow foster carer, I could see first-hand the effect that separation has on siblings."
"Frankie and I always have a great time at Star and it is always so rewarding knowing that we have helped to make a difference."
"We have been involved with STAR for over two years and take great satisfaction in knowing our contribution makes a difference."
"We have been involved with STAR for over two years and take great satisfaction in knowing our contribution makes a difference."
"I volunteer at STAR as I know from professional experience how often siblings get separated in the care system and lose contact with each other. STAR gives siblings time to be together, build lasting memories and have fun. It’s a privilege to be part of this as a volunteer."
"I enjoy sitting at the ‘kitchen ‘table with both the volunteer group and sibling groups. Always a lot of good chat and fun."
"I love coming to Star because in all the chaos of life it’s just nice sometimes to play and try and get a wee smile from one of the kids."
"Watching the magic happen at Star is something special. I love listening to the group’s voices and laughter carry through the woods and I always leave Star feeling lighter."
"Getting to see sibling groups coming together, from all over the country, gives me a great sense of joy. Volunteering here has put alot of aspects of my life into perspective."
"I love feeling that I am helping brothers and sisters to keep in regular contact and make it more likely that they can still have close and supportive family relationships throughout their lives."
"It is important to me that the children have space and time to be together as a family and I have enjoyed seeing their bonds to each other grow over the last few years."
