13 May – 1 July 2026
BMECP is delighted to celebrate the successful completion of the first Fostering Pathways Programme for BME Communities, which ran from 13 May to 1 July 2026.
Over eight weeks, participants came together to explore fostering within a supportive, culturally informed environment. The programme was designed to address a key challenge within the fostering sector: the underrepresentation of Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BME) foster carers and the need for more children in care to be placed in homes that reflect their culture, identity, faith, and lived experiences.
Throughout the programme, participants engaged in meaningful discussions around the UK fostering system, the needs of children in care, cultural identity, common misconceptions about fostering, financial considerations, and the role of foster carers. The sessions provided a safe space for questions, reflection, and honest conversations about the barriers that can sometimes prevent BME individuals and families from considering fostering.
One of the programme’s most significant achievements was its impact on participants’ confidence and understanding of fostering. Many attendees reported that the sessions helped challenge long-held myths and provided information that was previously difficult to access.
The programme also gained wider recognition when facilitator Shelley Hurley appeared on BBC Sussex Radio in May, helping to raise awareness of fostering and encouraging more BME individuals and families to explore the opportunities available to them.
We are particularly proud to share that two participants from the first cohort have decided to take the next steps towards becoming foster mums. This is a powerful testament to the programme’s success and its ability to inspire meaningful action. Both participants completed the programme, received their certificates, and shared heartfelt testimonials about their experiences, highlighting the value of learning alongside others in a welcoming and supportive community.
The programme’s success was further strengthened through collaboration with the Brighton & Hove Fostering Team, who met with BMECP to discuss joint approaches to increasing engagement with BME communities and ensuring that more people have access to accurate information about fostering.
As we celebrate the achievements of our first cohort, we remain committed to creating pathways that empower more BME individuals and families to consider fostering. Every child deserves a safe, nurturing home where they feel understood, represented, and connected to their culture and community.
With the first cohort now complete, we look forward to welcoming participants to Cohort 2, starting in September 2026, and continuing this important journey of learning, awareness, and community impact.
Children deserve homes that reflect who they are. Together, we can help make that a reality. 💛
