Recruiting black and minority ethnic adopters/foster carers

There are a disproportionate number of children from black, Asian and mixed ethnicity backgrounds in the care system, and these children typically wait longer for a permanent family than white children. Why is there a shortage of families for this vulnerable group? Are prospective adopters and foster carers not coming forward, or are they not being reached by adoption and fostering teams? What can be done to improve the situation?

This Good Practice Guide will help social workers, social work managers and all those involved in the recruitment of adopters and carers from black and minority ethnic communities. It includes a wealth of imaginative ideas and tips that can be used in recruitment strategies across the UK. Issues covered include:

• Relevant research;
• Identity, racism and the effect of transracial adoption;
• The factors that may be stopping prospective adopters and foster carers coming forward;
• Ways of reaching, preparing and supporting carers from black and minority ethnic communities;
• Recruitment policies and planning;
• UK-wide legislation that promotes racial equality.

Useful case examples from a voluntary agency, local authorities and consortia focus on practical ideas for recruitment. A full resource list provides invaluable assistance for the busy practitioner wanting to reach different communities to find the best placements.

Supported by Foster Care Associates.