Collaboration for a Better Future

Cultural Competency and Beyond 

Ascent Fostering Agency is an Independent Fostering Agency (IFA) that supports foster carers across South-East and South-West London. At Ascent, we believe that children and young people who have experienced trauma, abuse and loss need more than developmental, behavioural parenting or individual therapy sessions. Therapeutic in essence, means ‘healing’ which allows children to recover from traumatic early life experiences, they are supported to emotionally regulate and can develop healthy and meaningful relationships.

Ascent’s therapeutic approach is underpinned by psychodynamic approaches, systems theories, social learning theory, attachment and loss theories which aid us in understanding the developmental and behavioural impact of loss and trauma on children’s emotional and behavioural well-being. This is supported and is in conjunction with Ascent values. Every child and foster carer we work with is unique and thus requires us to respond and tailor our therapeutic approach to their individual needs. Whilst we ground ourselves in research and theory, we employ different elements to inform our therapeutic practice and intervention. We believe in making a real difference to the children we work with, however, this only is achieved through us ‘walking in their shoes’ and being alongside them on their journey.

In 2022 and 2024  We have received an Outstanding rating from Ofsted. In addition, for the second time in a row, Ascent has received the Investors in People Platinum Award in 2024 based on the consultation and feedback of foster carers and staff. This places Ascent in the top 2% of UK organisations for practices around staff development, support, and leadership. 

The context of our service is that we work with a diverse group of children, young people and foster carers in London in areas with a high level of multiple deprivation, and for commissioners and providers there are limited foster carer resources in an urban city. This places significant pressure on foster families and on the children they support. 

Our values and therapeutic approach underpin our practice and provide staff and carers with high-quality training and support, ensuring that our children thrive, achieve and build lasting relationships. We have been able to achieve our excellent level of placement stability of over 90% and outcomes for children despite these challenges. Children’s outcomes are underpinned by the meaningful relationships formed between our carers, children, the Ascent team and the wrap-around support we provide.

A Life-Changing Journey to Southern Africa with Ascent Fostering Agency

2024, we took several of our young people on a week-long residential trip to Gaborone, Botswana. This transformative experience fostered personal growth, independence, and resilience. Through cultural activities such as traditional cooking, storytelling, and language learning, the children embraced their heritage. One young person described it as, “I have connected to my roots.”

The trip also had an educational focus, including workshops on practical skills and outdoor activities like safari game drives, ziplining, and bushcraft. A visit to a local school and village deepened their cultural understanding.

Traveling through South Africa and Botswana with six of our looked-after children, aged 13–16, was magical. For many, it was their first time abroad—or even on a plane. A buddy system ensured their safety and emotional well-being, creating a close-knit, supportive environment.

In South Africa, we explored Mandela House and the Apartheid Museum, where the children engaged deeply with history. Botswana offered a stunning natural setting, and our camp’s “no phone” policy encouraged full immersion. The children bonded with local peers through football, storytelling, and shared experiences.

At Baratani Primary School, our young people read to students and gifted them footballs, books, and art supplies. Witnessing the gratitude and resilience of the students left a lasting impact.

A particularly touching moment was when a young girl I’ve mentored for years told a local staff member I was her mother. It reinforced the deep, family-like connections we build in our work.

This journey, made possible by the dedication of our team, was truly life-changing. As we returned home, we saw newfound confidence in each child—a powerful reminder of why we do what we do.

Young Person’s poem on Botswana

Botswana is a land where the earth whispers stories of resilience and beauty. In the vast stretches of the Kalahari Desert, where life seems impossible, nature thrives against all odds.

 The Okavango Delta, a shimmering oasis in the heart of the desert, becomes a life-giving force, nurturing not only the wildlife but also the spirit of the people. Here, the rhythm of life moves slowly, and the connection to the land feels deeply rooted as if the soil, sky, and creatures have always shared a secret bond. 

In my view, Botswana stands out as a remarkable example of harmony between nature and human development and the country's ability to protect its natural treasures while fostering growth is something truly admirable, making Botswana both a beacon of sustainable development and a heaven for nature lovers