Our team | Rising Stars

Meet the Team

At Rising Stars Fostering, we’re more than professionals—we’re passionate advocates for every child’s right to feel safe, loved, and seen. With deep expertise and lived experience, we support foster carers, families, and communities—building trust, sharing guidance, and celebrating every step of the journey.

Director

Amel Bensmail

I have worked in the fostering sector for over a decade, with experience in recruiting foster carers, placing children, and commissioning services. Over the years, I have built a strong understanding of how to create safe, stable, and nurturing placements where children can truly thrive.

I now lead Rising Stars Fostering, where my aim is to recruit high-quality foster carers, ensure the best possible matches for children, and provide carers with tailored support and personalised training. I believe that with the right guidance and tools, our carers can feel confident and well-prepared to meet the unique needs of every child.

At Rising Stars Fostering, my vision is clear: Launch Dreams, Nurture Stars – by providing safe, supportive homes where children can grow, achieve, and shine.

Registered Manager

Nehal Eldeeb

I’ve dedicated many years to working as a fostering manager, supporting carers in creating safe, nurturing homes for children. With a strong background in child protection, I’m deeply committed to keeping children's wellbeing at the centre of everything I do.

Outside of work, you’ll most likely find me in the kitchen—cooking is my passion and my happy place!

Agency Decision Maker

Diane Knight

I have been a social worker for 20 years and have worked mainly protecting children.

I believe that every child has the right to optimise their life chances and opportunities. They need to be cared for in a secure, stable and nurturing enviornment.

My role with Rising Stars means that I can transfer my belief system and value base to ensure children receive the right standard af care for any child whatever their experiences have been.

Service Manager

Imran Patel

My background is primarily in education, as well as community and youth work.

The experience in taking families through the application process to become carers has been so insightful and interesting.

It is so satisfying to see children and young adults placed with foster families and further seeing them settle into making their future.

Supervising Social Worker

Voldessa Farrell

As a seasoned Supervising Social Worker in the fostering sector, I've had the privilege of supporting and guiding foster carers in providing exceptional care to vulnerable children.

With a deep understanding of the complexities of foster care, I've worked tirelessly to ensure children receive the best possible support and nurturing environments.

Drawing from my experience and personal insights within the sector, I'm passionate about making a positive impact in the lives of children and families, and I'm committed to continuing this important work.

Business Development Officer

Jacqui Burgis

I've been working in the fostering sector for over seven years, and it's a role I feel truly passionate about. Each day brings new challenges, but also new opportunities to make a real difference.

Supporting individuals as they begin their journey into fostering — and witnessing the incredible transformation that takes place as they build trusting relationships with young people — is one of the most rewarding parts of my work.

It’s a privilege to be part of something so meaningful. While no two days are ever the same, the heart of our mission never changes: to provide safety, stability, and support for children who need it most.

We build futures

At Rising Stars, fostering is a journey we walk together.
From the very first day to every milestone along the way, we’re here—offering unwavering support, thoughtful guidance, and genuine care at every step.

Meet the Team

At Rising Stars, fostering is a journey we walk together. From the very first day to every milestone along the way, we’re here—offering unwavering support, thoughtful guidance, and genuine care at every step.

At Rising Stars, fostering is a journey we walk together.
From the very first day to every milestone along the way, we’re here—offering unwavering support, thoughtful guidance, and genuine care at every step.