At Ascent Fostering, we understand the profound importance of identity for the children we look after. For many young people in care, their sense of self is often shaped by multiple experiences, some positive and others challenging. Whether they’ve experienced trauma, neglect, or multiple foster placements, finding and holding onto their identity can feel like a difficult journey. But we are committed to ensuring that their path towards self-discovery is one that is supported, respected, and nurtured.
One of the core values we hold at Ascent Fostering is the belief in cultural matches whenever possible. We know that children from diverse backgrounds thrive best when they are placed with foster families who understand and can celebrate their culture, heritage, and traditions. It helps them feel seen, heard, and valued for who they truly are.
However, we also understand that there may be times when a perfect cultural match isn’t immediately available. In these instances, we don’t settle for simply placing a child in a home where they might feel disconnected from their own cultural roots. Instead, we ensure that each child’s sense of identity remains a priority, regardless of the circumstances.
When a cultural match isn’t possible, our priority shifts to ensuring that children have the tools and spaces to explore and celebrate their identity in other ways. At Ascent Fostering, we have created a range of facilities for children to express their thoughts, feelings, and experiences about who they are. Through our Youth Panel and 1-1 consultations, we actively encourage children to open up about what makes them feel connected to their culture and heritage and to explore their identity in their own time and space.
We value every child’s voice, and it’s through these discussions that we can learn what matters most to them. Our dedicated mentors act on the feedback children provide. For example, if a young person shares an interest in learning more about their background, we don’t simply listen we act.
Our mentors often collaborate with the children to create experiences that help them embrace and celebrate their unique identity. If a child expresses an interest in learning more about their cultural heritage, we may arrange workshops on their background or even take them on educational trips to places like history museums that showcase their roots.
Additionally, practical experiences like a trip to the barbers to maintain a traditional hairstyle or teaching young people how to style and braid hair can help build a tangible connection to their culture. These activities aren’t just about learning a skill they’re about fostering a deep sense of pride and ownership over who they are and where they come from.
A child’s identity is nurtured not only through the facilities we provide but also through the caring relationships they build with their foster carers. At Ascent Fostering, we ensure our foster carers are fully supported in their journey. This means providing specialised training, access to therapeutic spaces, and continuous support to each other as they navigate the complexities of caring for children in foster care.
Our foster carers are more than just providers of a safe home they are key partners in helping children explore and solidify their sense of self. By receiving ongoing support, guidance, and access to a community of other foster carers, they are better equipped to create a sense of belonging for the children they care for. They are empowered to celebrate the child’s unique identity and provide a space where the child feels truly seen and accepted.
For some of the children we care for, their journey through multiple foster agencies has led them to experience a sense of disconnection from their identity. They may feel as though they have lost touch with who they are or where they come from. This is especially true for children who have been moved from placement to placement without consistent support around their cultural and emotional needs.
But here at Ascent Fostering, we are committed to changing that narrative. We believe that identity isn’t just something to be protected it is something to be actively nurtured and celebrated. Identity is key to helping these young people thrive and reach their full potential.
We provide the support, tools, and resources they need to rebuild that connection to themselves. Whether it’s a cultural workshop, a meaningful conversation, or simply providing a safe space for expression, we work tirelessly to ensure that each child’s identity is honoured, respected, and cherished.
At Ascent Fostering, we recognize that a child’s identity is their foundation everything they will build upon. Our goal is to make sure that identity is never lost, never overlooked, and never taken for granted. Through our tailored support, programs, and deep commitment to the children in our care, we aim to empower each young person to explore, embrace, and celebrate who they truly are. When children have a strong sense of identity, they can confidently face the world and reach for their dreams. They have the tools to thrive, to belong, and to become the very best version of themselves. This is why identity matters so much to us, and why it’s central to everything we do here at Ascent Fostering.
If you would like to find out more about fostering and the amazing difference you could make in a young persons life. Give usa call on 0203 757 0070 or click HERE to receive a call back. We’d be happy to answer any questions you may have on fostering and take you through the process.
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