As Ramadan approaches, many families across Birmingham begin preparing for a month centred on reflection, kindness, and community. It’s a time when people often pause to think about how they can make a positive difference – not just for a moment, but in a lasting way. For one of our foster carers, Imran, this sense of reflection is deeply connected to fostering. As he explains:
“Islam in general is all about living in a peaceful community, and Ramadan especially is a time to reflect on that community and not only how we are benefiting, but how others within the community are benefiting from us – we feel our fostering journey is far more spiritual, holding a deeper meaning in this wonderful month.”
This makes February a fitting time to highlight the ongoing need for more foster carers in our city, including carers from Birmingham’s Muslim community.
Birmingham’s Strength Is Its Diversity – and So Are Its Foster Families
Birmingham is one of the most diverse cities in the UK, with communities, cultures, and faiths from all over the world. This diversity is one of our greatest strengths – and it’s equally reflected in the children who need safe, loving homes.
Foster carers come from every background, and they welcome children from many different walks of life. While we aim for the best possible match, the most important thing is the care and stability a family can offer. As Imran describes:
“Our fostering journey has been incredible. We’ve been blessed to meet so many young children who are extremely talented, brave, and courageous. We’ve worked hard to not only take care of their day-to-day needs but also become their advocates, highlighting any cultural or religious practices that may benefit them.”
What matters most is that carers can offer:
- A safe and stable home
- Warmth and understanding
- Respect for a child’s culture and beliefs
- Patience and an open mind
- Support through difficult moments in their life
These qualities exist across all of Birmingham’s communities.
The Difference Muslim Foster Carers Can Make
Muslim foster carers bring valuable strengths and life experiences that can benefit any child, regardless of their background. These may include:
- A natural sense of community and hospitality: Many families are used to welcoming relatives, friends, and neighbours – helping children feel at home quickly.
- Structured routines and strong family life: These provide stability and predictability for children who may have lacked this before.
- Respect for every child’s identity: Carers support children to maintain who they are – whether that relates to culture, beliefs, heritage, or personal preferences.
For Imran, supporting children from different backgrounds has been an enriching experience:
“It’s been wonderful working with social workers, legal guardians and talking to other, more experienced carers about various cultural practices, as well as aiding other carers with practices which we may be more familiar with than them. We’ve helped children learn numbers in different languages which has also helped us too.”
These strengths help create nurturing, supportive homes where children can feel safe, valued, and understood.
Why Ramadan Is a Thoughtful Time to Explore Fostering
During Ramadan, many families reflect on:
- Gratitude
- Compassion
- Helping others
- Giving back to the community
For some, this period of reflection becomes a moment to think about long‑term ways to support others – including fostering. There’s never any pressure; even taking the time to learn more is a meaningful first step.
Imran’s message for anyone considering fostering is heartfelt and powerful:
“I would urge people who are thinking about fostering from all communities, especially marginalised communities, to really think deeply about putting themselves forward. As a community we all need to support and assist each other, especially the most vulnerable around us.”
We’re Here to Support You
If you’re curious or unsure where to start, our team is always happy to help. We can:
- Answer your questions
- Explain what fostering involves
- Talk through the different types of fostering
- Arrange a conversation with an experienced foster carer so you can hear first‑hand insights and ask practical questions
- Outline the support, training, and financial allowances offered
You don’t need to make any commitments – just a conversation.
Discover The Difference You Could Make This Ramadan
There are children in Birmingham right now who need safe, caring homes – whether for a short stay or longer‑term. Our diverse city needs equally diverse foster carers to help meet that need.
If fostering is something you’ve ever wondered about, Ramadan can be a meaningful moment to explore the idea.
Take the first step. Ask the questions. Imagine the possibilities.
You might find that fostering fits your family more naturally than you ever expected.
Enquire online today, or call our friendly team on 0121 303 7575.
