The impact of racism and extremism on children, young people, foster carers and the fostering community

Across the UK, many individuals and families are currently feeling unsafe, unsettled and exposed to rising hostility, racism and extremist rhetoric - whether online, in the media, or within their communities. At The Fostering Network, we are hearing these concerns directly from our members - foster carers, children’s social care staff and the young people we work with. We are deeply concerned about the harassment, hate crimes, profiling, radicalisation and targeted abuse that is happening both in public and online spaces, and the impact on the lives of children, young people and families and the teams around them.  

It is unacceptable for foster carers and others supporting children and young people in care to face the increased likelihood of racist incidents and to have to navigate how to provide the most effective care through this worrying reality. Foster carers want to provide the best emotional and physical safety for all of the children and young people they care for, and it is essential that they are well supported, trained and resourced to do so. Children, young people, parents, foster carers and others in the teams around children should not experience fear and intimidation simply for being who they are. Everyone deserves to feel safe, celebrated and supported to thrive. 

At The Fostering Network, we have signed the Black Care Experience Charter. We are dedicated to anti-racist and anti-discriminatory practice, and we recognise the sincere work that we need to do to grow inclusivity, equity and the celebration of diversity within our own policies, processes and practices. Within our staffing structures, we have our ‘Equal Focus’ group which provides a helpful steer, challenge and advice about the steps we need to take in order to be the most inclusive and equitable organisation that we can be. 

We believe in collaborative approaches, and as such we stand in solidarity with all organisations, colleagues and families speaking out against racism, intimidation, discrimination and radicalisation. We acknowledge the excellent resources that exist and the work that many are doing to upskill, educate and train others to take more equitable and inclusive approaches in their work, relationships and caring roles.  

We provide space for our members to reflect and explore this further, and we will be focusing on the current situation specifically in our upcoming forums. Our practice enquiry line and advice lines can provide more individualised support so do reach out at [email protected].

Below are some resources that provide helpful information and support.

Support and Networks

Training and Learning Resources

Helplines and Advice

Books

Sector Statements