We recently sat down and had a chat with T & O – two of our foster parents who are currently fostering 4 young people who have travelled to the UK from another country.
Fostering unaccompanied asylum-seeking children (UASC) presents unique challenges and rewards. T & O discussed how they support UASC young people and shared some really positive stories. Here is some advice, based on our chat, for anyone considering fostering young people who have travelled from overseas.
Challenges and Support Needs
- Initial Adjustment:
- Language Barriers: Many UASC arrive with limited or no English proficiency. Foster parents need to be patient and resourceful, using tools like Google Translate or seeking help from bilingual friends or community members. Hope Fostering Agency provides support from Language Line too.
- Cultural Differences: Understanding and respecting the child’s cultural background is crucial. This includes dietary preferences, religious practices, and social norms.
- Emotional and Psychological Support:
- Trauma and Anxiety: Many UASC have experienced significant trauma. Foster parents must be prepared to provide emotional support and stability. This might involve working with therapists or counsellors.
- Building Trust: Establishing a trusting relationship can take time. Foster parents need to be consistent, patient, and empathetic.
- Practical Support:
- Education: Helping UASC integrate into the education system is vital. This includes supporting them with language learning and understanding the UK education system.
- Legal and Administrative Assistance: Navigating the asylum process can be complex. Foster parents often need to liaise with legal professionals and support the child through their asylum application.
Success Stories and Positive Outcomes
- Personal Growth and Development:
- Educational Achievements: Many UASC go on to achieve significant educational milestones. T talked about one young man who went from struggling with English to receiving multiple university offers.
- Career Aspirations: One of the young people currently living with T & O is currently focussed on gaining an apprenticeship and eventually opening his own business.
- Integration and Belonging:
- Community Involvement: Activities like attending pantomimes, going rock climbing, and participating in community events help UASC feel part of the community. Ensuring that they have a bus pass and phone is something that T&O do as soon as possible.
- Family-Like Environment: Foster carers who treat UASC as part of their family, involving them in daily activities and celebrations, help them feel secure and valued. T&O talked about the importance of family meals and playing board games together.
Recommendations for Prospective Foster Carers
- Be Prepared for a Learning Curve:
- Cultural Sensitivity: Educate yourself about the child’s cultural background and be open to learning from them.
- Language Support: Be patient with language barriers and use available resources to aid communication.
- Provide Emotional Stability:
- Consistent Support: Be a reliable and consistent presence in the child’s life.
- Seek Professional Help: Don’t hesitate to involve therapists or counsellors if needed. Hope Fostering Services offer support 24/7 which is an amazing resource.
- Advocate for the Child:
- Educational Support: Help the child navigate the education system and encourage their academic pursuits.
- Legal Guidance: Assist with the asylum process and ensure the child has access to legal support.
T & O firmly believe that fostering unaccompanied asylum-seeking children can be incredibly rewarding. It requires patience, empathy, and a willingness to learn and adapt. We could have talked for hours about the different children T & O have fostered. Their approach to ensuring a young person reals safe alongside promoting independence has ensured that they have made significant impacts on the wellbeing for so many young people. Just incredible! If you are considering becoming a foster carer, know that your support can make a significant difference in the life of a child seeking safety and stability.
To find out more, please get in contact today.