Young people helped create new care film
In an attempt to abolish stigma associated with children in care a group of young people in Derby have shared their own experiences of the system to shape a new film.
The new film, which is now available to watch on YouTube, was delivered in partnership with schools, carers and social workers under Derby City Council. It was originally proposed by 14-year-old Margita, who wanted to change people’s views about what it means to be in care.
Following the proposal of the initial idea, Derby City Council stepped in and their participation team, which supports derby’s children in helped, helped to take the plan forward and connected the young people with creatives from Derby Theatre. The young people met as part of Derby’s ‘Our Voice, Our Success’ group and the Derby Virtual School.
Overall, around 15 youngsters took part in a series of workshops to produce the seven-minute animated film, which is otherwise known as One Day.
‘I had an indea about teaching children and adults what being in care is like. Some people feel ashamed of it because other kids don’t understand. People treat you differently and they always ask, “Is it like Tracy Beaker?” But we’re no different from any other young person – we’ve just got different parents,’ Margita said.
‘This film is really important to me. I feel excited to share my story and other people’s stories and I hope it changes how people think about being in care.’
Everyone involved in making the short movie was invited to see it for the first time at a red-carpet screening at QUAD – a cinema based in Derby.
Tia, aged 15, said: ‘I’ve been in care for four years. The Virtual School has helped me to get involved in things and be with other young people who are in care. People that aren’t in care don’t know what it’s like.
‘We get judged and bullied because we’re not with our parents. I hope they will watch this and change how they think. I feel amazing to be part of something like this.’
As well as premiering at QUAD, the short feature has also been showcased at the Virtual School Festival and will be shown at the National Association of Directors Children’s Services Conference in July.
Arguably, the production of the film couldn’t have come at a better time. Currently in Derby it is estimated there are around 380 children of school age in care and considering this film is set to be used to educate, it could make a huge difference with such a large audience.
Susanna Lim, Derby City Council’s Director of Early Help and Children’s Social Care, said: ‘Our fantastic care experienced young people have done a wonderful job with this film. What they’ve created is truly inspirational and conveys such a powerful message about what it’s like in care. It’s really quite emotional to watch.
‘I want to say a huge well done to all the young people that were involved. We’re passionate about providing the right care and support for every child in the city and this project is a great example of how we collaborate with our partners to achieve that.’
Graeme Ferguson, Headteacher of the Derby City Virtual School, added: ‘We have been delighted to support such an innovative project which has looked to capture the voices of young people who are care-experienced. This project continues our collaborative working relationship with the creative sector in Derby.’
Media: Jon Tyson, Derby Virtual School and
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