Compass Central’s Chaiiwala Morning Fosters Real Connections

On Tuesday, 22nd July, the Moins Chemist & Wellbeing Centre in Compass’ Central region was buzzing with conversation, community spirit, and the comforting aroma of chai and samosas. The occasion? A special Chaiiwala Morning event dedicated to exploring the life-changing journey of fostering.

The event brought together over 40 guests from across the region and beyond. With attendees travelling from places as far as Nuneaton, the turnout was a testament to the strength of local interest in fostering and the powerful sense of shared purpose on the day.

The event opened with a warm welcome from Mohammad’s brother and business partner, Moin, followed by an inspiring keynote speaker, the local Imam, Mohammed Lockhat. Speaking passionately about the values of fostering within Islam, the Imam encouraged attendees to consider their collective responsibility to care for the most vulnerable in society, our children and young people.

The speech sparked a fantastic Q&A session, with the Imam, foster carers Mohammad and Ayesha, their social worker, and Compass representative Leah Evans answering a host of insightful questions. The buzz in the room was undeniable, and many guests were so absorbed in conversation that they stayed until 4:30 pm, long after the event was due to finish. While the team had been hopeful about attendance, they were absolutely thrilled with the wonderful and engaged response.

One attendee, a 24-year-old male data analyst was eager to make a difference and offered to share fostering information through Leicester’s mosques and community leaders. His enthusiasm and community connections with local community leaders and MPs could prove invaluable in raising further awareness.

Another highlight came from an Imam in Nuneaton, who contacted the team just before the event. A long-time advocate for fostering in the Muslim community, he generously offered his continued support and shared a dedicated Islamic fostering toolkit to help others take their first step.

The event wasn’t just informative; it was inclusive and supportive in every sense. A BSL translator was present to ensure understanding, and visitors were invited to receive free health checks, including blood pressure readings. All of this took place in the welcoming space in a community pharmacy and wellbeing centre, a perfect setting for Compass’ message of wraparound care and support.

As one attendee put it, “There was a real buzz in the room – a feeling that we were part of something meaningful.”

With foster carers leading the charge, and expert backing from the Compass team, the Chaiiwala Morning was a true reflection of Compass Fostering’s mission: to bring people together in support of children and young people – and it all started over a cup of tea.