ABOUT US
Our Story
Our Story
“Replenish Culture” is a co-production between a foster carer and a social worker. Sarah Livingstone is a foster carer with over 10 years’ experience. James is a social worker with 9 years experience and was the newly appointed fostering team manager at Camden Council when George Floyd was tragically murdered (2020). Co-production acknowledges that people with ‘lived experience’ of a particular condition are often best placed to advise on what support and services will make a positive difference to their lives.
After several discussions on the complex and specific needs of black children in foster care, Sarah and James decided to act. The first action did not have the desired outcome. Foster carers were provided additional funds in order to go out and purchase products for black children in their care. However, issues remained as many carers did not know where to access these products, which products to use and how exactly to use them. Sarah then put forward the idea of a gift box with products inside. The impact has been profound!
The “Replenish” logo was designed by a group of looked after children from Camden. They worked with a graphic designer to a design that is visually eye catching.
Replenish culture represents an inclusive approach to problem solving whereby there is no expert. Foster carers, young people and social workers all give their thoughts and opinions hold equal weight. This approach is empowering and supports sustainable change with buy in from all.
"I have been a foster carer for nearly a decade. I have witnessed the power of love, resilience, and compassion in a role that at times can be extremely challenging.
As a foster carer, I felt there was a lack of support and understanding around the complex needs of children from diverse backgrounds. As well as a need for tailored support for foster carers when addressing identity and culture.
As a Co-founder of “Replenish Culture”. Our mission is to nurture growth, understanding, and support in a system that doesn’t always have the resources to implement change.
Every child needs to know they belong in a world that sees them for who they are and embraces their individuality. “Replenish Culture” is working to unlock the chains that hold some of our children back.
Transforming lives, One “Replenish Culture” box at a Time."
Sarah Livingstone
“My Passion to do more comes from my experiences growing up in London as a young black boy. It’s fair to say that we have a long way to go when it comes to fully understanding the needs of black children. There are complex reasons as to why it feels so difficult to discuss race in particular and this has to be the starting point for meaningful discussions.
Whilst managing a fostering team, I was struck by how often foster carers would cite a “lack of support” from the Local Authority. It seemed quite vague and for many years I would get quite defensive and begin to reel off all the support that the LA provides (SSW, Supervision, training, support groups etc.) After many years of pondering this sentiment, I’ve come to a newfound realisation. When Foster carers say they don’t feel supported, it’s not that they are saying they don’t appreciate what the LA offers them. Perhaps, they are simply saying - it isn’t enough…?
Caring for children with increasingly complex needs is a very complicated task for anyone. I’ve been blown away by the work of many foster carers. However, I firmly believe that without innovation to the standard support offer, Foster carers will continue to struggle.
“Replenish Culture” is the beginning of a new way of working together… This is just the beginning.
James Kargbo
