AFA Fostering are really pleased to see the launch of Islamic Guidance on the Contemporary Practice of Adoption and Fostering in the UK having worked closely with Penny Appeal on their campaign to raise the awareness of fostering within Muslim communities.

Funded by the Department for Education, The Penny Appeal Fostering and Adoption Campaign worked closely with Independent Fostering Agencies and Local Authorities to deliver a series of community engagement events and conferences across the East Midlands and West Midlands.

The aim of these events was increasing the number of applications from Muslim foster carers.

AFA Fostering attended a number of these events in Leicester, Nottingham, Walsall, Stoke-on-Trent, and Burton-on-Trent. It was very positive to be able to support these events and to provide answers to the many questions raised by those attending.

The Islamic Guidance is a part of the Penny Appeal Campaign and was launched in the House of Commons on 23rd April 2018.

Produced in consultation with over 60 Imams, scholars and muftis and developed through two symposiums with adoption and fostering professionals and care experienced adults, the Guidance provides a contemporary understanding of the Islamic perspective on fostering and adoption, tailored specifically to the Muslim community.

The guide is designed to highlight the position of the Muslim faith for those who are unsure about becoming foster carers or adopters, and covers the main themes of:

  • Definitions and terminology of adoption and fostering
  • Preservation of the child’s identity
  • Managing familial relationships
  • Formation of parent-child relationships
  • Cross-religious placements

You can download a copy of this guidance via the Penny Appeal website.