By Ruth Guy
The Traveller and Roma Foster Care Project seeks to address the unique needs of Traveller and Roma children in foster care by raising awareness and encouraging foster carers from within these communities. Recognising that fostering is a significant commitment, this initiative supports potential carers through the assessment process while advocating for more culturally appropriate placements.
The Importance of Cultural Awareness in Foster Care
Children in foster care often face challenges in maintaining their cultural identity, particularly those from minority backgrounds. For Traveller and Roma children, culturally appropriate placements are limited, leading to a sense of disconnection from their heritage. Despite training efforts, it’s difficult for those outside these communities to grasp their intricacies and values fully. This gap can contribute to an ‘identity crisis’ for young Travellers and Roma in care, making it crucial to find ways to keep their heritage alive in their daily lives.
Celebrating Traveller Culture: The Traveller Box
The Traveller Box contains carefully selected items to spark cultural conversations in foster homes. It includes three books authored by Traveller community members. One standout is The Slug and the Snail, a story about self-acceptance and cultural pride. The other two books offer a window into Traveller life: one introduces readers to Cant, a lesser-known Traveller language, while the other, Growing Up Strong, shares stories of Traveller’s childhood experiences to encourage pride and understanding.
The box also features the Philomena bracelet, lovingly handcrafted and blessed by women from Bru Bhride, as a symbol of cultural heritage and strength.
Honouring Roma Heritage: The Roma Box
The Roma Box, equally rich in cultural artefacts, features two community-authored books. The Real Us provides an insightful look into the lives of Roma youth, challenging stereotypes and highlighting their aspirations. Meanwhile, the Roma cookbook invites foster families to explore traditional recipes, offering a hands-on way to connect with Roma’s heritage.
Also included are a miniature wagon, representing Roma nomadic traditions, and a traditional scarf, or Diklo, symbolising cultural pride and the beauty of Romani dress. These items bridge discussions on Roma history and customs, encouraging children to take pride in their heritage.
A Catalyst for Connection and Understanding
These Cultural Celebration Boxes are designed to ignite curiosity and inspire dialogue within foster homes, bringing Traveller and Roma traditions to life. Each item, from the books to the handcrafted bracelet and scarf, is a gentle prompt to explore, understand, and celebrate these vibrant cultures. This small gesture aims to help Traveller and Roma children maintain a connection to their roots, providing a meaningful way for foster families to honour and embrace their cultural identities.
