Somali men from the association Wadajir and from the mosque Telemark Islamic community, want to cooperate with child protection and teach Norwegian foster families more about Somali culture.

The men say that they have suggestions for how ethnic Norwegian foster families can learn more about Somali culture if they receive a Norwegian-Somali child into the family, writes FriFagbevegelse.

They talk about halal food, celebrating Eid and how Norwegian families can learn more about caring for skin and hair and getting hold of the right products.

The Somali men will also help recruit foster homes, visiting homes and support contacts among Somalis.

Norwegian-Somali Luul Elmi started as a case manager in the child protection service in Skien barely a year ago.

It means a lot to the Somali community.

It means a lot, says Abdirahman Hasan, chairman of the association Wadajir.

The association Wadajir works for inclusion and integration and will prevent misunderstandings between child protection and the immigrant community.

I am who I am with my appearance. I am probably perceived as less dangerous to talk to, says Elmi.

When Minister for Children and Families Kjersti Toppe (Sp) holds an input meeting on minority competence in child welfare this week, the child welfare manager in Skien will explain how they recruit employees with a minority background and how they use cultural competence.

In Skien child protection service, 14 employees have backgrounds from other countries, including Pakistan, Iran, Eritrea, Congo, Iraq, Kosovo and Somalia.

If we are to be a relevant service, our employees must reflect those who live here in the municipality, says child welfare manager Kari Honerød.

The Somali men believe that trust in child protection could have been better. They know Somalis who fear child protection, and claim that some flee because of them.

It is sick that Somalis travel out of Norway because they are afraid. Instead, they go to a country where there is no “nav” and where the child is not well, they must dare to get help instead of leaving, says Abdirahman Hasan.