The BME origin or Black and Minority Ethnic refers to Black African, Caribbean, Asian and Mixed ethnicity. In the UK there is a high number of children from BME origins in care and the numbers are increasing over time. This includes children who are physically or sexually abused, neglected, parent’s imprisonment, drug or alcohol abuse or even family breakdown.

These children who come to care need a loving family to provide them a stable family environment. The number of BME children in care is much higher than the foster families who are coming forward to offer their support and care. To provide a safe environment to these looked after children, families from BME backgrounds play a vital role in the lives of these children who are either separated or have limited contact with their community. Although families from different ethnic origin could also successfully foster a child but according to the National Minimum Standards, whenever possible children are best placed in families that are ethnically and culturally similar.This way, the family from the same origin reflects and meet ethnic origin, cultural background, religion and language needs of the child.

All children and young people are different, making it difficult to define a “typical child”. However, what you can expect is that, as with any child or young person, they need security, stability and the chance to develop and thrive with carers who understand their needs and have empathy for the child’s situation.

If you are from a Black or Minority Ethnic origin (BME) and looking to help children in need by fostering, then you are at the right place. Here at Sunbeam we will provide you full information about fostering with up to date and comprehensive training. With our professional and qualified staff who will undertake to assist you right from the assessment stage. Once you are approved, we will allocate a dedicated social worker who will be local to you and support you throughout. Our experienced placement team will make sure you are provided with the best available placement match, suitable both for the benefit of the child and you to ensure a stable placement and an opportunity for the child to develop, thrive and achieve.

At Sunbeam to reward and support your finances we provide competitive fostering allowance up to £700 per child per week.