Experience of Foster Care
West Midlands
Angela and Andrew on 25 Years of Fostering and Faith
As part of Black History Month, Compass Fostering is celebrating the voices, experiences, and contributions of Black foster carers. Among those honoured are Angela and Andrew Daniels, who have been transforming lives together for over 25 years.
Married for 37 years, their fostering journey began in Birmingham when the local authority approached a Black-led church with a diverse congregation. The aim was to connect with potential Black foster carers. At the time, Angela and Andrew had been married for 12 years and were raising two young children. They attended the meeting not knowing how it would shape their lives.
Angela remembers being pleasantly surprised to learn that there were already Black foster carers registered with Compass Fostering. “That gave us a safety net,” she recalls. “We felt empowered knowing we’d be part of a family that already knew us”.
From the start, Angela and Andrew viewed fostering as a community effort. “It really is a village approach,” Angela says. “The most successful foster carers are the ones embedded in the community.” Inspired by their example, Angela’s sister and brother also became foster carers, and together they built a strong network of support that has carried them through years of change.
“When things felt uncertain, we had each other,” Angela shares. “That network is essential. It isn’t just a job — it’s a life”.
Over the years, Angela and Andrew have welcomed children from diverse backgrounds – Caribbean, African, Asian, and White British – and have always approached each child with openness and care.
“Children are children, no matter where they come from. But it’s important to understand and honour their culture, not erase it,” Angela reflects.
Looking back on 25 years of fostering, Angela highlights the need for greater representation across the sector: “There remains a significant need for more Black foster carers across the country, as well as Black professionals such as assessors, managers, social workers, and heads of fostering. Although we will always be a minority in Local Authorities and Independent Fostering Agencies, it’s vital to aim for improved representation. This promotes a strong, community-driven approach to supporting foster carers from ethnic minorities”.
Angela and Andrew also value Compass Fostering’s GRACE Strategy, a strategic group that works, whilst constantly reviewing ways to tackle racism and improve equality across the organisation. “Compass Fostering is striving to be visible in Black and minority communities; we want all potential foster carers to feel welcome,” Angela explains.
Although the couple had planned for retirement, they were recently asked to support two siblings through court proceedings. The bond between them grew quickly, and so did their commitment. With long-term plans now in place, the siblings remain with the couple today. Angela laughs, “When you foster, you’re a foster carer for life. The kids still come back whether you like it or not”.
Angela and Andrew’s story is one of commitment, faith, and hope – a testament to what’s possible when carers are supported and celebrated for who they are.
“My journey started with a call to help. But it was community, our church, our family, our fellow carers - that sustained it, and it was Compass,” Angela says.
This Black History Month, Compass is proud to honour Angela and Andrew Daniels, celebrating the warmth, wisdom, and love they’ve shared over 25 years. Their care has changed lives, and their presence has brought strength, culture, and understanding to the entire fostering community. As Angela says, “You can’t do this alone; you need a village and a thriving community”.
