Airdrie & Coatbridge Advertiser
SPECIAL RECOGNITION Karen Morrison
Foster mum who founded a charity to help siblings separated by the care system to be reunited and create new, happy memories together.
As a foster carer, Karen Morrison saw first-hand that the care system had a problem. Brothers and sisters were often being split up.
An estimated seven in 10 children in care are living apart from at least one sibling. Determined to ensure siblings don’t become strangers, Karen founded the charity Siblings Reunited (STAR) in 2013.
Since its launch, Karen and her experienced volunteers have reunited 500 estranged siblings, including some who have never met.
Karen, 47, explains: “I knew I had to do something as it was heartbreaking that siblings were not able to see each other.” Karen hosts the children on her farm in Fife for an average of two hours a month, offering them opportunities to reconnect. Activities on offer include meeting the animals, growing their own food, a play area and an outdoor kitchen.
She says: “It has been hugely rewarding to see the difference this has made to so many groups of brothers and sisters who can trust that, here, they will have regular, fun and safe contact with each other supported by adult volunteers.”
Karen was dumbfounded to win a Pride of Scotland award. “I was so shocked, I just went silent when I was told. It’s great recognition although that is not why I founded STAR. I’m just glad there are people out there that think it is a wonderful idea and see how much it’s needed.”
Karen was lauded by The Great British Bake Off’s Prue Leith, who said: “Karen what you do to reunite adopted and fostered siblings is amazing. You so deserve this award.”
And celebrity chef Paul Hollywood also sent his congratulations: “You have done an incredible job. The work that you do keeping siblings together is to be admired. Well done you.”