Fatima Whitbread reforming the Care System in the UK

The Community Safety Podcast

Fatima Whitbread, an MBE and world record holder, is renowned for her accomplishments in athletics and tireless efforts to reform the care system in the UK. Fatima's remarkable journey began when she was abandoned as a baby and left to die in a flat. A vigilant neighbour heard her cries and alerted the police, leading to her rescue. Placed under the care of Hackney Borough Council, Fatima spent the first six months of her life in a hospital, battling malnutrition and nappy rash.

Subsequently, she became a ward of court and spent the next 14 years in the care system, with the initial five years in a Hertfordshire children's home alongside 25 other children. This challenging upbringing fueled Fatima's determination to make a difference in the lives of children in similar circumstances. Today, she serves as the bass for the charity Action for Children, leveraging her experiences to advocate for care system reform.

In addition to her role with Action for Children, Fatima has embarked on personal campaigns to raise awareness and bring about positive change within the care system. Her journey from abandonment to becoming a world record holder and an influential advocate exemplifies resilience and the potential for positive transformation, inspiring others to join her in making a lasting impact on the lives of vulnerable children.

"In giving, you receive. Auntie Ray taught me this invaluable lesson. She was my bright shining star, the person who understood the plight of children in the care system. She gave me love, security, and a sense of belonging. Through her, I learned to call out injustice, not just for myself, but for all those kids who needed a safe and happy childhood. Today, my mission is to be a voice for these children, to bring together partnerships and build the power of sport, providing them with opportunities, focus, and the chance to learn essential life skills. Mentors are crucial in those formative years, helping children navigate a challenging path and avoid falling foul of the law. I share my experiences to emphasize the importance of awareness and support for these vulnerable kids, giving them the love they crave and the chance to be heard."

Today on The Community Safety Podcast:

• Fatima shares her backstory, being abandoned as a baby and rescued by the police after a neighbour heard her crying.

• Fatima’s Early Years in the Care System

• Challenges in the Care System: The care system in the 60s lacked emotional support, with communal living, minimal explanations to children, and a lack of individual care.

• Fatima Meeting Biological Mother at the age of 5

• Separation from Siblings

• Failed Reintegration Attempt - Social workers tried to reintegrate Fatima with her family, but it failed when her mother rejected her, leading to feelings of abandonment

• Impact of Positive Mentorship - Auntie Ray, a caregiver, played a crucial role in Fatima's life, providing emotional support and a sense of belonging.

• Importance of Support for Children in Care:

• Fatima emphasises the need for mentorship and support for children in the care system, advocating for sports as a means of empowerment and self-worth. Additionally, she discusses the importance of awareness and giving these children a voice.
  The discussion sheds light on the challenges children face in the care system and the significance of positive influences and support in their lives.