Brighton & Hove City Council’s fostering team recently hosted an inspiring event at Ironworks Studios to highlight the different ways people can support children and young people in care.
The ‘It Takes a Village’ event was organised to reflect the shared responsibility of our council and community to support children in care. It was a dedicated space for Black and Global Majority people to come together and learn more.
The event featured stories, music, poetry, food and conversations about how we can all play a role – by becoming foster carers, offering supported lodgings, becoming an Independent Visitor, or by sharing community spaces and raising awareness.
Children in care have told the council how much it means to them when carers and professionals understand their identity and culture – whether through food, hair care, language or shared experiences.
Representation matters as it helps care-experienced children and young people build connections and relationships that allow them to thrive and feel that they belong.
Councillor Bella Sankey, leader of Brighton & Hove City Council, said: “Foster carers support some of the most vulnerable children and teenagers in Brighton & Hove by offering a stable, secure and loving home.
“It takes a village to raise a child, and it’s crucial that our fostering network reflects the rich diversity of our city. Care-experienced children and young people need representation, connection and belonging in order to thrive.
“You could become part of the village that supports children in care by offering your time, your home, your voice or your skills. Your background, culture and experiences could be exactly what a young person needs.”
At the event the council also premiered its 2-minute annual fostering film, which has been created in partnership with more than 100 local authorities from across the country.
