Black History Month is celebrated to promote the knowledge of black history, culture and heritage and to distribute information on their positive contribution to the British society.

Sunbeam Fostering Agency has over 50 carers from black ethnic backgrounds, demonstrating the ethnic diversity within our agency. Sunbeam receives countless referrals for children of various ethnicities, which therefore enables us to match children appropriately. This month, we would like to celebrate the people in today’s society who have helped tremendously to enable children to continue learning about their heritage and culture. It gives children the opportunity to feel that sense of security and belonging in a home environment.

We have spoken to a number of carers regarding this celebration and asked for their contribution about their feelings and experiences of being a Foster Carer and supporting and nurturing children and young people. Below are some inspiring words from one of our approved cares and her encouragement to others to help children from all over the world.

My name is Stella and I have been a part of the Sunbeam family for the past 12 years, it has been a challenging but thoroughly enjoyable and rewarding job. Caring for young people coming from all corners of the world is honestly a highlight for me and seeing them grow up into young men and women who become strong standing members of society. I would encourage others who have always thought about helping young children to do so. I especially would like to encourage those from ethnic minorities to join and help these kids settle in, as they come from all corners of the world. As you can imagine it can be difficult to settle in and it really is the little things that count and make a huge difference in a young person’s life.