Black History Lewisham 365: October 2022 profiles – Ada Dixon

We spoke with Ada Dixon who has been fostering for Lewisham for 20 years.

What made you want to become a foster carer?

I had previously worked in the care sector and retired early. I decided to carry on working in care. I wanted to take on a rewarding role and fostering was a way for me to do this. I liked the idea of making a difference in a child’s life.

Being a Lewisham resident, fostering with Lewisham Council made the most sense to me.

What are your achievements as a foster carer?

Being able to make a young person feel safe and cared for has been so rewarding. Getting them to a place where they can go back to their family home and continue a relationship with their family has made me really proud. It takes a lot of patience and it can be hard to say goodbye, but I understand that I am in a professional caring role.

I have learned a lot in my role. The support from my social worker and fellow foster carers has been invaluable. I also received regular training that has allowed me to connect with young people in all different circumstances. Being able to build these relationships has been another source of pride.

Why do you think it’s important to celebrate Black History Month?

It is so important for the younger generations to know where they came from and what happened in their parents' generation. Things are very different now and we can’t forget our history. I like to go to the library with my children to find information about their history. I also really like the Migration Museum in Lewisham Shopping Centre. They had an exhibition on the Windrush Generation which I really connected with.

It is so important for young people in care to be able to stay connected to their cultures. Lewisham offers training for foster carers about helping young people to stay connected with their cultural identity. This is particularly important for asylum seekers. I have found that it is so important to learn what food young people like from their cultures. With all the changes happening in their lives at least food can be something familiar and comforting.

This year’s theme for Black History Month is Time For Change: Action Not Words – what does that mean to you?

Words are just, well, words. Lewisham children need people to take action. Open their home, make them dinner, take them to school, make sure they are ok.

There are a lot of things that have changed in my two decades as a foster carer. Every generation is different and the training offered by the fostering service has changed as part of this so foster carers can offer the best possible care to young people.

Who is your biggest hero?

Nelson Mandela. No doubt.

We spoke to Ada in October 2022.

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Would you be interested in fostering with Lewisham Council?

Lewisham Council offers all foster carers competitive allowances, support and training. There are a range of different fostering options from short-term, emergency placements to long-term, permanent placements, and social workers speak with potential carers to see what works for their lives and families.

Most importantly, Lewisham foster carers are part of a community made up of truly passionate, caring and experienced social workers and carers who are making a real difference in their local community.

If you think you could make a difference in a child’s life contact Lewisham Council for an informal discussion on 0800 015 0129 or email at fosteringrecruitment@lewisham.gov.uk alternatively find out more by visiting our webpage.