Q. Can I follow my religion?

Q. My parents want me to follow my family's religion but I do not want to.

Q. Do I have to follow my foster family's religion?

Q. Can I follow my religion?

A. Yes. If you have been brought up in a particular religion, and it is important to you, your social worker should help you in making sure you can follow your religious beliefs whilst under a Care Order. This may include:

• Going to a particular place of worship
• Going to special classes for religious instruction
• Going to a particular school
• Wearing your traditional dress, rather than western clothes
• Not having your hair cut
• Eating, or not eating, certain food

Q. My parents want me to follow my family's religion but I do not want to.

A. You should discuss this with your social worker. The views of your parents will be taken seriously. If you cannot agree with your parents and your social worker you may have to consider consulting your solicitor about whether you could apply to the court for permission not to follow your parents faith.

Q. Do I have to follow my foster family's religion?

A. You cannot be made to follow a religion which is not your religion or the religion of your family.