For this year’s Black History Month, we are honouring Black Britons who champion social work and honour our communities. Meet Symon Basterfield, 70 Up star and foster carer who has cared for 60+ children. Discover his story this Black History Month.
Who is Symon Basterfield?
If you’ve watched the Seven Up series (now 70 Up), you’ll know Symon. The documentary followed 14 people every seven years since 1964, exploring how background and opportunity shape our lives. Born in 1956, Symon first appeared aged seven while living in a children’s home in London’s East End.
Symon is of mixed-race heritage, with a Black father he never knew and a white mother who struggled with depression. Growing up, he faced prejudice from both Black and white communities, and the series initially portrayed him as a shy, disadvantaged child.
From factory floor to foster care
Symon started in manual work at a sausage factory and meat processing at 21, then later as a freight handler at Heathrow Airport. These were jobs he enjoyed but never saw as a long-term career. He has said his limited formal education held back his career and earnings. Then, Symon became a father.
Symon’s resolved to be a committed and supportive father, influenced by his own experiences of growing up without his own. He’s shared that he places family ahead of career ambitions and chooses work that allows him to be present for his children.
Alongside work, Symon and his wife Vienetta trained as foster carers. Together they have looked after more than 100 vulnerable children.
Why family comes first
Despite a tough start, he’s stated in 70 Up that he’s content with his life and does not have regret about his journey. He chose work that let him be there for his children, and his own childhood in care inspired him to give foster children the stability and support he felt he missed.
Symon shows how personal experience can inspire someone to build the safe, loving home they may never have had. This Black History Month, we’re recognising Black foster carers like Symon and the difference they make to children’s lives.
Want to foster?
If you’ve been thinking about fostering, even if it’s just a “maybe one day”, we’d love to chat. There’s no pressure and no question too small. Give our friendly fostering advisors a call on 0800 989 0135 or message us via the website.
