Brighton & Hove City Council’s fostering team has hosted an inspiring event to highlight the importance of representation and community in supporting children and young people in care.
Held at Ironworks Studios, the “It Takes a Village” event brought together members of the city’s Black and Global Majority communities to explore the different ways people can help care-experienced children – from fostering and offering supported lodgings to volunteering as Independent Visitors or simply raising awareness within their communities.
The event combined stories, music, poetry, food and conversation, creating space for open dialogue about identity, belonging and the power of community care.
Representation and Belonging
Children and young people in care have told the council that representation makes a meaningful difference, when carers and professionals understand their culture, heritage, food, hair care, language and lived experience, they feel more seen and supported.
“Representation helps care-experienced children build the connections and confidence they need to thrive,” said a spokesperson from the fostering team.
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.”
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National Collaboration
The council also premiered its annual fostering film, created in partnership with more than 100 local authorities nationwide. The two-minute film aims to encourage more people from all walks of life to consider fostering and reflects a shared commitment to supporting children in care across the UK.
People interested in learning more about fostering can visit Brighton & Hove City Council’s online fostering hub for information on how to get involved.
