SpeakOut Spring 23

The Black Care Experience: Photographer Jodine Williams

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The Director Diaries

Find out more about Marie-Claire Jones, our Director of Fundraising and Communications, as she tells us her hopes and aspirations for Care Experienced people and how she went from working as a journalist to one of our directors.

As Director of Fundraising and Communications - what does your job entail?

I am responsible for making sure that we are taking all the opportunities to maximise the funds we have, which allow us to reach more Care Experienced people. Sometimes that means talking to the Scottish Government about funding, or writing applications to funders with requests, but often it’s about connecting with people across Scotland and helping them understand our work and why they should support us.

We are lucky to have amazing supporters who donate to us every month and do things for us like bungee jumps and Kiltwalks to raise money for us. We are also very lucky to have the support of some major companies such as John Lewis. I’m also responsible for the team that oversee all our communications as well as our events. They look after things like our website and social media, and even SpeakOut magazine.

Can you tell us a bit about yourself?

I’ve worked here for nearly 5 years and have managed lots of different teams in the organisation in that time, but my main focus is always on fundraising, and the different ways that we communicate with all the people that need to know about our work.

I’m from Glasgow originally and started out in my career working as a journalist before moving into fundraising about 12 years ago. I lived in Aberdeen for about 10 years and still visit friends there regularly. I’ve got a lot of love for the NorthEast of Scotland, especially the beaches and the countryside.

When I’m not at work, I’m hanging out with my daughter who is about to turn two and keeps me very busy.

What did you do before joining Who Cares? Scotland?

I always wanted to be a writer, so I originally studied English, Film and Television at Glasgow University. After that, I did a further year of study to train as a journalist, and that’s when I moved to Aberdeen to work for a newspaper there. I eventually became interested in moving into the charity sector and took a job with a big Scottish children’s charity which had several residential children’s houses as well as fostering services. I did a similar job there focused on fundraising and communications.

What made you decide to join Who Cares? Scotland?

I came to know lots of amazing Care Experienced young people in my last job, and this gave me a strong interest in working in a role that was much more focused around care. I also have some Care Experienced relatives. One of my cousins is a member of Who Cares? Scotland and we are very close. She’s in her 20s but I know she always looks forward to getting her SpeakOut magazine!

When the role with Who Cares? Scotland came up, it felt like a very natural step for me to take all the skills I’ve developed and use them in a role that means a lot to me, personally and professionally.

If you could have dinner with anyone, dead or alive, who would it be?

Without question, it would be David Bowie. He is one of my all-time heroes and I love everything about him, especially his creativity in inventing the various personas people know him for. I would also invite the illusionist Derren Brown. I was hypnotised on stage by him during one of his Glasgow shows last year and would love to ask him how he did it! I would also invite the comedian Fern Brady. I’ve just finished her book about being diagnosed with autism as an adult, and it was fantastic. That sounds like a great dinner party.

What are your hopes and aspirations for our Care Experienced members?

I would love for all our members to feel supported and understood within their communities, and to have lifelong, loving relationships. Our members often tell us of the stigma they experience as a result of being Care Experienced. I think we have a lot of work to do together, to help our communities across Scotland to better understand care experience, so our members can be championed for all their amazing, diverse qualities.

Do you have anything you’d like to tell our members?

If you ever have a fundraising idea, or you come across an opportunity for fundraising where you live, please drop us a line. We always love to hear from you at fundraising@whocaresscotland.org

Finding Me

Trans Visibility Day takes place on March 31st each year to celebrate trans and non-binary people and raise awareness of discrimination faced by trans people worldwide. Read about what growing up in care was like for 28-year-old trans man, Jack.

When I think back to my childhood, it’s like looking through a portal into a parallel universe. Everything looks kind of like the real world with the main similarities, but for some reason instead of growing up as a boy, in this universe, I am a girl.

I knew before I could read or write that I was supposed to be a boy. I’ve heard stories from my auntie, of me declaring to the world that when I grew up, I would become a boy. As if it were a role I could apply for. If only it were that easy.

At the age of 4, after years of being around domestic violence and drug addiction, I was taken into care. Me and my little sister were placed with our mum’s brother and his partner. Due to my parents’ chaotic lives, we hadn’t built a relationship with them, so for us, it was like moving in with strangers. My auntie and uncle applied to be foster carers rather than kinship carers, due to the extra support provided to foster carers and the support around contact with our parents.

I knew before I could read or write that I was supposed to be a boy. I’ve heard stories from my auntie, of me declaring to the world that when I grew up, I would become a boy. As if it were a role I could apply for. If only it were that easy.

At first, being in a strange new home, with strange new adults, I accepted the strange new outfits. All of which were pretty and girly. What a contrast compared to the future more masculine me!

I can’t remember the first time I asked to wear boys clothes, but it started with wearing what I liked outside of school. This was when I was about 7.

I came into this world as “Jasmine” but will leave as “Jack”.

I was 16 when I eventually came out as transgender. All thanks to a Hollyoaks storyline - with weirdly, the same birth name as me. I came into this world as “Jasmine” but will leave as “Jack”. Actress Victoria Atkin played the role of 15-year-old Jasmine Costello, who desperately wants to be a boy. Seeing this storyline on TV helped me to feel less alone. This is why the representation of trans people in the media is so important. Ever the fan of politics, I had to resort to “direct action” to have my name changed. Standing in front of the head office of my children’s home, I demanded that they sign my deed poll to change my name or I would stage a protest. It’s ridiculous it had to get to this point. I believe the law needs to change to support trans young people to identify the way they feel inside. I am not someone that would normally resort to such action but no one was listening.

The guidance on how to support trans people in care just doesn’t exist. Some people think we don’t deserve rights, and that our lives are up for debate. That we shouldn’t be “encouraged” or “supported” because being trans is seen as wrong, bad, or abnormal. Who decides what is “normal”?

Transgender Glossary

Gender dysphoria

Used to describe when a person experiences discomfort or distress because there is a mismatch between their sex assigned at birth and their gender identity.

Transitioning

The steps a trans person may take to live in the gender with which they identify. Each person’s transition will involve different things. For some this involves medical intervention, such as hormone therapy and surgeries, but not all trans people want or are able to have this. Transitioning also might involve things such as telling friends and family, dressing differently and changing official documents.

Transphobia

The fear or dislike of someone based on the fact they are trans, including denying their gender identity or refusing to accept it. Transphobia may be targeted at people who are, or who are perceived to be, trans.

I have lived under a regime that believed they could force me to be a girl. In one placement, my life was made a living hell because I didn’t conform to gender expectations and wanted to express myself differently. Luckily, I made it to an amazing placement with carers who supported me every step of the way when I came out. From adapting to new names and pronouns, taking me shopping for boys clothes, to listening to all my dysphoria concerns and reassuring me everything would get better throughout my transition - I had an immense team around me. I wish I could make sure that was the case for every trans person in care.

I would not be here today, if I hadn’t gone to an amazing children’s home that not only accepted me, but loved me. When I came out as trans, there was nothing but love and kindness.

It took a while to get my pronouns right and adjust to a new name, but they sure tried! Most of the time it was hilarious when they got it wrong, reminding me of my nan who would confuse all her grandkids!

There were some funny times, like when a manager was shocked seeing me in shorts - confused at my leg hair! Maybe because I had more than him?

I know from meeting other people in the LGBTQ+ care community that other people did not receive the same respect, support and kindness that I was lucky enough to receive. Trans young people in care need everyone under the “corporate parenting” umbrella to come together to support us, so we can be our true, authentic, fabulous selves.

There were some funny times, like when a manager was shocked seeing me in shorts - confused at my leg hair! Maybe because I had more than him?

Black Care Experience CONFERENCE

The day started with the 4:26am train from Glasgow to London. Despite the early start, I was buzzing for the day ahead and couldn’t wait to get to the conference. I was looking forward to the chance to improve my understanding of the experiences of people of colour within the care system.

I was also hoping to meet other Care Experienced people of colour at the conference and gain a wider understanding of the care system in England.

The agenda for the day was really appealing. It was made up of two panels, discussion groups and performances from Care Experienced artists. The first panel was the ‘Children’s Social Care Workforce Panel’ where the panelists discussed ‘cultural competency’ before we were put into breakout groups. In the groups, we discussed what ‘cultural competency’ looks like in the care system. It was really interesting hearing everyone’s ideas and seeing the similarities in answers across the groups.

Then we had a break for lunch where I got to meet more Care Experienced people of colour as well as practitioners. Then it was onto the next panel for the day. The panelists were all Black and Care Experienced and spoke about their own personal experiences before taking questions from the audience. It was a really emotive panel and you could tell everyone in the room was

listening intently. In the next break out group, we discussed the answer to “What do you need to know when raising a black child or young person in Children’s Social Care?”.

After that, we were treated to a vocal performance and spoken word piece by two Black Care Experienced people. Both were really impressive!

The day was very engaging and over so quickly! My favourite part was the group work sessions. I learned so much from the other practitioners who are working to support Care

Experienced people of colour. There was lots of dialogue on how to support the Black Care Experienced community.

Overall,

much lived experience. I also had the opportunity to gain more knowledge of the barriers faced by Black people in care.

The main learning I’ve taken is that is it vital for there to be a wider understanding of race and ethnicity in the care system. There is limited research and understanding which is limiting the voices of Black Care Experienced people. It is important for the full Care Experienced community that it ensures it reflects all the voices of lived experience!

If you are thinking of attending the Black Care Experience Conference next year, I’d really encourage you to do so! I gained so much from the day from being able to connect with other Black Care Experienced people (even one from Scotland) and building on my own knowledge and understanding.

The panelists were all Black and Care Experienced and spoke about their own personal experiences before taking questions from the audience. It was a really emotive panel and you could tell everyone in the room was listening intently

Last month, our member Jasmin Pilling attended the Black Care Experience Conference in London. Here she writes about the trip.

It is important for the full Care Experienced community that it ensures it reflects all the voices of lived experience!

Photo credits: The Black Care Experience: Photographer Jodine Williams

Reflections on Care

Loraine McHendry, one of our members, has written about the stigma Care Experienced people can face. CW: grooming and abuse.

As The Promise gathers momentum, with care experience being mentioned in the First Minister’s resignation speech as she pledged her ongoing support, we cannot ignore the fact that for many years our community’s plight was ignored. It could be argued one of the main reasons for this is stigma.

In the context of the Care Experienced community perhaps another word for stigma ought to be mythology. A set of overarching speculations prevailing in wider society about how as individuals we may have found ourselves in the care system and how the community should be treated.

Surveys suggest almost a third of adults in the UK believe children have done ‘something’ to end up

in care and have gotten, or will get, into trouble with the police at some point in their life (Life Changes Trust 2018). The stigma of care experience is propelled by the belief there must be something inherent in the child which will make them a bad citizen. The genes of parents, who’ve made the sorts of mistakes resulting in having their children removed, passed onto the child – the cycle poised to repeat itself.

Stigma follows Care Experienced children, young people and adults alike. The stigma of being in care can mean you’re seen as already damaged and deemed more readily capable of coping with abuse and injustice. To question this is regarded as a selfish refusal to atone for the mistakes of our forbearers.

The survivors of the Rotherham grooming gangs were predominantly girls living within the care system. They were initially not believed when they approached authorities and the validity of their stories was challenged due to the belief that they fit the profile of someone capable of orchestrating the type of circumstances that could lead their abusers to behave the way they did. Would this happen to people living out with the Care Experienced community? Of course, we all hope not but the ‘put up and shut up’ approach was what was expected of the Care Experienced girls in Rotherham and beyond.

Care Experienced people can often not be believed when calling out the behaviour of others. Instead, we can be accused of provocation. The assumption being the negative habits and influences of living in marginalised communities and disadvantaged households have left a lasting impression. Or the Care Experienced person is simply a ‘bad kid’. If they’d been better, they’d still be with their familyright?

Mythology is a beautiful thing when its used to describe magical creatures, historical buildings and enchanted landscapes. It’s far less palatable, cruel in fact, when applied to the Care Experienced community through stigmatisation. When we embrace every member of our communities, we all benefit. We have stronger connections and a sense of belonging. It is time we ensure we provide Care Experienced people with a world free from stigma.

Celebrating Celebrating

Celebrating you is a space for you guys to tell us what you’ve been getting up to and to share anything you might be really proud of. We love getting stuff from you, so please send in your poems, stories, pictures, jokes or tell us about something you’ve done, your favourite hobby or a new pet, and we’ll include it in the next issue of Speakout. Email it over to comms@whocaresscotland.org!

Carelidh Celebration Station

For the Carelidh we asked for people to nominate Care Experienced people who they believed had made a difference in their local community or overcome a challenge in their own life. We displayed these in our Celebration Station at the Carelidh. Check out the nominees here:

Well done to 15-year-old Harley for helping others.

Harley lives in foster care. Her foster carers also offer respite care to a disabled boy, Ian, who often stays with them for weekends or longer if necessary. Harley has built a loving relationship with Ian and spends time involving him in activities such as baking etc and is very patient with him and encourages him to help out.

Harley wrote to the Make a Wish foundation and asked if they could make Ian’s dream of going to Thomas the Tank land a reality. They responded with an invitation for Ian, Harley and the family to go together for a weekend.

Well done to Tony Anderson who passed a motion with his student council to recognise Care Experienced as a protected characteristic. His passion and dedication to equality and fairness should be celebrated.

Well done to 16-year-old, Reece for getting himself a full-time job and loving it.

Gabrielle Docherty has been nominated for helping others and being a true ray of sunshine!

We’d like to show our appreciation to Laura Mullarkey, commonly known as “Kiltwalk Laura” for all her fundraising efforts. Laura champions Care Experience in a unique and powerful way that is relatable to many of us and empowers others to do the same.

Chloe McKirdy has been nominated as a great friend and Care Experienced warrior!

Congratulations to Ryan Morrison who has just passed his stage one access to nursing course at the West College of Scotland.

Lisa Moore has been nominated for her bubbly personality and hard work!

Jeannette Miller was nominated for her resilience and perseverance at university, and for her commitment to helping the Care Experienced community.

Aimee Thorpe has been nominated for her work on the Home and Belonging Initiative at Children in Scotland. Aimee used her lived experience to shape the findings and recommendations by identifying what mattered for Care Experienced young people.

You! You!

Congratulations to Jayde O’Connor who was recently awarded Alumni of the year 2022 at Glasgow Caledonian University. This award is for all her contributions towards advocating for Care Experienced people and is the highest award a university can bestow on its graduates. And finally, Megan Moffat for inspiring and helping others.

Well done everyone!

We love to see our members creative sides, here our member Bob shared a short story he wrote.

A Fictional Care Story

By Bob Hamilton

Ayoung boy wakes up, and wants to be a soldier for a day, then gets told by others that he’ll never make it, and that he is too weak and scrawny. His foster mum says, don’t worry son, it’ll be okay, you’ll grow up big and strong, just like your foster daddy one day.

The boy smiles, but to his dismay, the children overheard his mother from the front doorway, he got picked on and beaten up, all day long, then he shut himself away, for days and days, he worked out, every

day in his room, switched to eating protein bars, chicken, even tried some vegan foods, which brought out in him, better moods. This went on for a few years, until the day he turned 19, he was then above the appropriate age to join the army, he showed these bullies that they were all wrong, and that in his mind, he was both clever and strong, the moral of the story is, don’t fade away into the darkness, keep soldiering on, and one day, you’ll achieve your dreams and find happiness.

Drop into our new Glasgow group!

In January, we launched a new connection space for Care Experienced people aged 16 and over to come together at our Glasgow office.

Every Thursday evening, we’ve welcomed our members for a fun night of games, food and some friendly competition. We’ve even had themed nights for Burns Night, Chinese New Year and the launch of our Mario Kart leaderboard! Check out what some of the people who’ve came along have said about it:

“I have met a few new people and reconnected with some old friends.”

At every drop-in we also have one of our lifelong advocates from our Helpline there who can answer any of your questions and help you access support if you need it. There is also our advocacy wall where each week we have a new question or topic. This is a chance for people to share their opinions on different things and start conversations.

The group is always changing and we plan our activities around you. If you have an idea for something to do at

“The group gives me a chance to relax and enjoy time with my family.”

the group, let us know and we will try our best to make it happen.

If you’re Care Experienced and aged 16 or over, feel free to come down and join us! Our doors are open every Thursday from 6pm – 8:30pm. There’s no need to register and you can come and stay for the full thing or just drop in for a while.

If you require travel support, get in touch with our team at events@whocaresscotland.org.

who is this?

“Coming to the group has helped lift my spirits and knowing I’m not alone.”

What’s On 2023

This year our national events programme is already off to a great start with The Carelidh taking place in February. There are going to be many more big events this year, some of which you will be familiar with and some that are new.

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To celebrate Refugee Week in June we will be co-hosting an event with several refugee charities to showcase the diversity within the Care Experienced community. It’s a chance to celebrate the intersectionality of our members and learn something new about other cultures.

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In August we are delighted to announce that we will be hosting a residential weekend for members aged 16+. Members will spend the weekend at Bonaly Scout Centre in Edinburgh. There will be lots of outdoor activities to take part in as well as a chance to connect with old friends and make some new ones.

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Our final event of the year will be our Care Family Christmas, where we bring members together on Christmas day for a very special dinner. Read all about last year’s Care Family Christmas on pages 14 -15

We hope to see as many of you as possible at one of our events. We try to make events as accessible as possible but if there are any barriers to attending that you think we should know about please get in touch and we will do our best to support you.

In the summer we will be kicking things off with our annual Care Cup, a friendly five-aside football tournament for Care Experienced people of all ages and abilities. You can sign up as part of a team or on your own. The Care Cup, hosted by Street Soccer, takes place in Glasgow and is always a brilliant day out with a bit of healthy competition and teamwork to boot.

We will be celebrating Care Experienced Week at the end of October where we will march for Love in Glasgow at the Love Rally, sum up the year so far at our annual AGM, and dance like nobody is watching at the Time to Shine Festival. Keep an eye out for your chance to choose this year’s theme. If you have any brilliant ideas email events@ whocaresscotland. org and tell us!

A Cracking Christmas!

hristmas 2022 saw the return of our Care Family Christmas Dinner for the first time in three years, taking place at the Village Hotel in Glasgow on Christmas Day. 90 Care Experienced people came together to celebrate alongside staff and volunteers.

On arrival, guests received a little hand-made Christmas tree decoration and headed through to the living room for a hot chocolate with marshmallows. There were lots of board games to choose from like Frustration, Dobble, and Snakes and Ladders. At twelve o’clock, a magician wove in and out performing tricks that were both entertaining and baffling.

Some of our guests decided to relax in the chillout area where there were cosy socks, blankets, and comfy couches to spread out on and next door we had a selection of Christmas crafts. There was lots to choose from including a felt Christmas wreath, a wintery picture, and a cardboard Christmas tree. The most popular choice of entertainment by far was pass the parcel in the main hall. We had to wrap extra presents because everyone wanted a turn!

At 1 o’clock, we all sat down to pull crackers and have an amazing three-course meal. There was soup and crusty bread to start, followed by turkey and all the trimmings.

Aaron, came all the way from Inverness for the day, he said:

“My day started the day before when I had to get a bus from Inverness to Glasgow where I met Laura. She took me to the hotel where the event was being held so we could have a look around and help set up. After, I got a burger in the restaurant which was absolutely incredible. Then I got taken to the hotel to check in which was right across the road and was amazing. The staff were incredible!

“Then the day of the event came and I was super excited to see what was going to happen! There was hot chocolate and lots of other drinks plus loads to eat.

“The hotel staff made the most amazing turkey dinner, I couldn’t fault it, and the puddings were insane as well.”

Christmas Consultants

This was the first year we employed Care Experienced Christmas Consultants to help plan the event and make it extra special. Our consultants, Tony Anderson and David Grimm, were really helpful from start to finish. Talking about their experience, they said:

“Being a consultant for the event was amazing. We really enjoyed it. It’s a great idea for Care Experienced people to be able to have their say on the events they’re going to be attending. It was also really cool getting paid for our work even though it was a short-term thing – it showed our opinions really mattered.

Then for dessert there was Christmas pudding, cheesecake, chocolate brownie, and cheese and crackers. Everyone was absolutely stuffed by the end of it. After the meal, Buddy the Bear brought a very special visitor to see all the children - Santa made it all the way from the North Pole to join the Care Family Christmas! He handed out gifts to all the children and everyone joined in a rendition of jingle bells. After all the food and excitement, we settled down to watch Elf on the big screen. It was sad when the day came to an end - everyone had such a fun time catching up with friends and making new ones.

“We got to be a part of the planning team, helping make decisions on things like what gifts people would get and what activities there would be. It was interesting to see what goes into planning a large-scale event, and overall, we were really glad to be asked to be consultants and would definitely consider doing it again.”

Thank you David and Tony, we loved working with you on this! Planning is about to begin for the next Care Family Christmas and we’d like to invite members to apply to become this year’s Christmas Consultants. Keep an eye on our website and social media to find out when applications open.

CARE DAY

Care Day 2023 was celebrated on Friday 17th February. We celebrated across the country with a range of events including Tending the Light in the North and the return of the Carelidh – our ceilidh event in celebration of Care Experienced people.

The Carelidh

For the first time in three years, Care Experienced people from all over the country got together, connected and took to the dance floor for a night of dancing in Edinburgh.

Over 260 attendees enjoyed a live Ceilidh band, a food and drinks buffet, entertainment and fun, and to add the excitement, there was an appearance from our very own Buddy the Bear!

We marked our theme, Challenging Stigma, with a special award ceremony during the Carelidh. Check out our award winners on pages 20 - 21.

Paula, age 17, spoke about the Carelidh:

“Before it, I felt nervous about dancing in front of a lot of people. I was wearing a new suit which made me feel confident and good about myself because people were giving me compliments saying how smart I looked.

“I was so nervous that my heart was beating fast but I soon settled down when I saw other people smiling and dancing and telling me that it was going to be a good night.

“Some of the dances were difficult but I managed them with the help of the people around me. The whole night went very quickly for me, probably because I never left the dance floor!

“The food was amazing, especially the macaroni and drinks of juice which I really needed after all the dancing. I loved the location - it was exciting to be in Edinburgh.

“Overall, it was a brilliant experience and my first ceilidh. I would love to attend another event like this in the future –hopefully the Pride Prom in September!”

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2023

Comes to Inverness Tending the Light

To celebrate Care Day in the North, Who Cares?

Scotland joined forces with The Promise, Moniack Mhor, UHI Shetland and Highland Council to host the Tending the Light festival. Previously this festival has been held on the island of Shetland but this year the 3 day festival mostly took place in Inverness.

Tending the Light in the North was an exciting Festival of Care and Connection, which brought together Care Experienced young people and

their friends and Corporate Parents from across the North of Scotland to make a difference to care and to help #KeepThePromise. The programme of events, a mix of in person and digital, included an exhibition of work by Care Experienced young people from across the North, a Care Convention with art workshops giving voice to Care Experienced young people, a shared event with Corporate Parents to look at how we shape care and #KeepThePromise and closed with a celebrational prom.

Ayrshire’s Care Day Celebrations

We teamed up with SL33 in Kilmarnock for an afternoon of fun for Care Day. We welcomed around 40 people from East and South Ayrshire, 24 of them were Care Experienced.

The event had a really positive atmosphere and was enjoyed by all.

There was food and drink, a DJ workshop with the Sound Lab and some fantastic entertainment from Scotty the magician. Face painter Melanie brightened the day with her colourful designs. Eoghann, Participation Lead in East Ayrshire, set up an art station where the people had the chance to create their own designs. Vibrant Communities kindly provided a range of giant games for the children to enjoy. Iona, from the Secret Garden Holistic Therapies, provided a variety of treatments for parents and careers and some young people, she said:

Thank you everyone for celebrating Care Day 2023, #ChalleningStigma and joining us at one of our events. We hope you enjoyed them as much as we did! Until next year…

it was her pleasure to spend the afternoon with us.

CHALLENGING STIGMA CHAMPIONS CELEBRATED

This year, our Care Day theme was ChallengingStigma

– acknowledging the stigma Care Experienced people can experience, as well as the importance of challenging that stigma and the positive impact this can have for society as a whole. We marked this theme with a special ceremony during the Carelidh, recognising those who, either personally or as part of their work, have played a part in challenging the stigma that Care Experienced people often face.

Rebekah Pierre

Rebekah is a Care Experienced author and multimedia journalist. She currently works at the British Association of Social Workers and is a proactive campaigner for the Care Experienced community.

Lemn Sissay

Lemn is a BAFTA nominated award winning Care Experienced writer, international poet, performer, playwright, artist and broadcaster.

Ian Dickson

The late Ian Dickson grew up in care before becoming a social worker, a manager of children’s residential services, an advocate, and a much loved campaigner for the Care Experienced community.

Our award winners are:

Brian Cox

An award-winning Care Experienced actor from Dundee. Brian is best known for his screen roles in the likes of Rise of the Planet of the Apes, The Bourne Supremacy and succession, for which he won a Golden Globe.

Ashley John-Baptiste

Ashley is a Cambridge University graduate, journalist and Care Experienced campaigner. He is currently part of the BBC News TV, Radio and digital team as a reporter across all platforms.

Sophie Willan

Sophie is a multi-award winning Care Experienced writer, actor, comedian, and producer. She most recently had massive success with her BBC 2 series ‘Alma’s Not Normal’.

Barry Keoghan

Irish actor, Barry grew up in care in Dublin. This year Barry is nominated for an Oscar for his role in The Banshees of Inisherin. His credits also include The Batman and Dunkirk.

Dani Harmer

An actress, DJ, television presenter, and singer but will forever be known as the face of Tracy Beaker in the iconic BBC children’s TV series, The Story of Tracy Beaker.

Emma Jane Reeves

Emma is a Welsh screenwriter and playwright, best known for her extensive work in the children’s television series Tracy Beaker.

Terry Galloway

A Care Experienced campaigner and consultant. Terry is currently fighting to make care experience a protected characteristic.

Thanks to the NRB

In recognition of their dedication and hard work during their 2 year term, which came to an end on Care Day, the members of our National Representative Body were also awarded with a Challenging Stigma award.

They were voted in by you, our members, at our digital AGM and Members’ Assembly in 2021. Since then, they have been involved in a number of projects and helped ensure members’ voice has been included

Oisín King

in lots of different aspects of our work.

Some key highlights from their time include attending two residential training weekends, helping to design influencing opportunities and engaging members and decision-makers on topics from mental health to Care Experienced parents, and of course, our Love Rally in October 2022.

A big thank you for all your hard work over the last 2 years!

Check out who they were and some of their achievements:

Active MSYP member and keen campaigner and activist. Winner of an SYP Human Rights Defenders Award.

Shannon Boston

Co-designed the Twilight Gathering event and crafted the Tend Our Light mental health report recommendations.

Amie Tait

Amie crafted recommendations for our Tend our Light and Believe in Us reports, and hosted the Wee Meet - an event for Care Experienced parents.

Jasmin Pilling

Jasmin petitioned the Scottish Parliament to provide truly lifelong support for all Care Experienced people and spoke at the 2022 Love Rally.

Thomas Bartlett Thomas took part in the Rights Right Now project, and presented at three webinars on children’s rights and independent advocacy.

Katrina Gallacher

Katrina campaigned for a guaranteed income for Care Experienced peopled.

Louise Kelly Louise presented at the World Community Development Conference and raised awareness of Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders.

Lynda Greig

Lynda launched our Tend Our Light report at the Twilight Gathering which resulted in the recommendations being endorsed in full by a Scottish Parliamentary motion.

Marissa Roxburgh

Marissa spoke about mental health and lifelong rights for Care Experienced people at a Human Rights Consortium Scotland event.

Charles Fernando Charles was a COP26 Conference of Youth delegate, and his SYP motion on mental health services resulted in a Scottish Parliamentary motion.

Tia Mure

Tia cofacilitated a session at the Twilight Gathering and spoke to the Health, Social Care and Sport Committee for their inquiry into the health and wellbeing of children and young people.

Kira Henry Kira crafted the Tend Our Light mental health report recommendations, and spoke to the Health, Social Care and Sport Committee for their inquiry into the health and wellbeing of children and young people.

Xavier Rae Xavier spoke to the Health, Social Care and Sport Committee for their inquiry into the health and wellbeing of children and young people.

Nicole Bain Nicole attended the Care to Connect political influencing session and the Festival of Care in Shetland.

Thank you so much for your commitment, enthusiasm and skill in all you’ve done for the Care Experienced community over the past 2 years.

To volunteer to represent the care community in matters which affect their lives is something to be proud

of… and to do it in the middle of a global pandemic is just phenomenal! It’s been brilliant to work alongside you and you’ve created a legacy which will continue for many years to come.

Thank you again,

A message from Louise to the NRB: Louise x

For Care Day we asked you to send us poems about care. The winning poem was by Charles McFarlane. He got to read it in front of more than 260 people at The Carelidh in Edinburgh as well as winning a £50 voucher of his choice.

Care Day by Charles McFarlane

What really is care?

Is there anyone who really knows?

It’s different for so many people, and through our experience it really shows.

Some people never know that care is where they’re at. Some people need it bad even when they’re chucked into their own flat.

I don’t think there’s a single answer that could cover all of care, but I know of some things I’ve learned that I would like to share.

We received lots of brilliant entries and it was a difficult task to choose a winner. Thank you to everyone that sent in your poems. Here is Charles’s winning poem and a few of our runners-up.

You are never alone when you have lived the lives that we’ve been through Because together we learn it’s about more than me and you There are people who are lost alone without support, Stuck in care somewhere trying to hold down the fort. We must continue to be a community and help one another, To help influence change and support those who suffer.

Care should be happy, full of support and love

Like the changes we have made with a push and a shove. We share our love and knowledge to help all those around us, And on care day we can celebrate and enjoy all the buzz. So be proud of yourselves and what you’ve achieved, You’re all strong individuals whose love we’ve received We are a community together, forever and loved

And being in care is something to be proud of.

Prize Poems

Arms by Anonymous

I want to be safe and I want to be loved

I want to be held by arms belonging to ones who care Arms that know how to protect and how to help

To many times have these arms not belonged to someone who can do this

To many times have the arms slipped loose and I have fallen into the darkness

To many times have they been too tight and crushing with no room to move or breathe

But now I have found the right arms

The arms that are building me a ladder out of the dark void

The arms that are freeing me and allowing me to breathe

These are the arms I want to keep

A Poem by The Irvine Kid

‘Where’s your mama gone’ They would sing though the fence, Irvine school kids laughing

As I stood feeling dense. Scuffed shoes on my feet, hair sticking up wild, A children’s home kid, A rag-tag child

I watched them go past And they sang out again

‘Far far away’ They chanted times 10

I lowered my head, Tears rolled down my cheeks

The school kids were right, hadn’t saw her in weeks.

Care by Sacha Morgan

Caring is sharing the burden of weight, by the one who takes time, understands and relates. A friend who is there at the end of a phone so this journey I face is never alone.

Caring is an expression given with grace, when the pain in my heart is told on my face. Someone who cares and celebrates my joy, who cheers me when sad with a comforting voice.

The one who is there when friends ain’t around, in my hour of need when life is profound. Someone who stays to give me their time, who believes in me, and helps me to shine.

Caring can be a slight touch of a hand, knowing you’re there and united we stand.

The one who can guide me, tell me things are okay, when I’m lost in my thoughts, they can show me the way.

The one who takes pride in the things that I do, who sees the real me after all I’ve been through.

One whom I trust with my deepest of thoughts, who feels safe and secure, and is there to support.

Caring is a mix of compassion and kindness. A side of humanity we should all have inside us.

Volunteering on the Dance Floor

Our volunteers had a great time attending and supporting the recent Carelidh. Seven of them helped out at the event in different roles including face painting, stewarding and cheering on our dancers. Check out what they said about their experiences:

Maureen

Maureen had a great time with our members in the chill out room. She said:

“I enjoyed meeting such a variety of people from across Who Cares? Scotland.  I was pleased to help out in the chill-out room - so I spent quite a lot of time colouring in, playing Dobble and just chatting to whoever came by - grandparents, young adults, small children. It was obvious that the room was really needed, and great to feel useful just by being there.

“I can see how valuable it is for members to have a chance to come together. I also felt very well looked after as a volunteer with great communication and support from staff.”

Andrea

Loving to get to be a part of it all in her role as a volunteer, Andrea loved how warm and welcoming the atmosphere was. She said:

Anne

Helping the children have lots of fun in the soft play, Anne really benefitted from the experience. She said:

“I was lucky enough to be part of the Carelidh by volunteering to support the soft play area. Seeing the kids having such a good time is what I love about volunteering. I got to see how much everyone loved the dancing and generally having a great time meeting lots of lovely people. It was a great night for everyone.”

Agnes

“I had a great time at the Carelidh. I felt very welcome from the moment I entered the venue. There was a lovely atmosphere, ensuring everyone had the best time. It was heart-warming seeing everyone enjoying themselves!”

Our volunteer Agnes helped to decorate the event, bringing all the lovely pieces of art that the children of Beith Primary created which added lovely and meaningful decoration to the event. Did you see them?

Who Cares? Scotland’s Members’ Newsletter

Every month we send out a digital newsletter called Newsflash to our members. However, we know that not all of our members will have an email account or access to the internet. That’s why we are including a roundup of important headlines from the

A New Mothers’ Writing Circle Young Mums’ Group

A new opportunity for mums in the Greater Glasgow area aged 26 if Care Experienced with babies aged 2 or under. The sessions are led by Catrin Kemp (Founder & Director of New Mums Writing) and co-led most weeks by Genevieve Herr (Creative Writing Lead).

The group focuses on texts written about motherhood and how it changes people. They use creative writing prompts to encourage participants to write. It offers space to escape your imagination as well as hear from other young mums about their experiences. You won’t be asked to read your work unless you want to, and no one will judge you for what you write if you do decide you want to share it with the group.

The group has now started and is held every week in Maryhill, Glasgow.

If you’re interested email newmumswriting@gmail.com to find out more.

#HumanRightsDay

Around Human Rights Day, the organisation Together shared several human rights based pieces of content.

Laura and Megan from our Policy & Public Affairs team wrote a blog outlining why we believe it’s important that care experience is included in the #HumanRightsBill.

last couple of months and sharing them again, here in SpeakOut, so you don’t miss out!

If you haven’t been receiving NewsFlash but have a working email address, just email membership@ whocaresscotland.org and we’ll update your details.

Exploring Narratives of Higher Education

A researcher from the University of Strathclyde has reached out looking to recruit participants for her study: Exploring Narratives of Higher Education by Care Experienced Graduates. She’s looking for people who have graduated from a Scottish university and are Care Experienced.

Find out more by emailing keri. mcgachy@strath.ac.uk

Get Involved in Fundraising for Us!

Looking to fundraise for us this year? Our 2023 fundraising calendar of events is live on our website. There are a range of activities you can take part in this year including the Kiltwalk, a bungee jump or inflatable runs. Scan the QR code to be taken to our calendar and filter the page by ‘fundraising’ to see all the ways you can get involved.

The Third Anniversary of The Promise

The 3rd of February 2023 was the third anniversary of The Promise. Our CEO, Louise Hunter, appeared on STV News discussing the frustrating lack of progress that has been made in keeping The Promise and the effect this is having on Care Experienced young people.

As someone who has loved this musical for years, I was bursting with excitement to see it. The film starts with a quote that says: ‘To change the world, it takes a little genius’, this was something I instantly loved from the moment I saw it. When listening to it, when I was younger, I was always left with the feeling that no matter who you are or where you are from, you too can change the world. Matilda, for a lot of people like me, is a huge part of their childhood and I can assure you this film still fills you with the same amount of love the original did.

If you haven’t seen the film adaptation or read the book by Roald Dahl, the story is about young Matilda, who is extremely intelligent, brave and has superpowers. She attends a school with the most appalling headteacher you could ever imagine, Miss Trunchbull, who really highlights some of the worst qualities people can have. However, Miss Trunchbull’s niece - the wonderful Miss Honeyshows the importance of being kind, understanding and having fun. She is the fictional character that proves the importance of relationships and believing in people. Despite this, I did notice some problems.

I had initially seen this film when it first came out but I recently watched it

again and I must admit the difference in the viewing experience was crazy. When I first saw the film, I left the cinema filled with excitement, joy and satisfaction that the ‘hero’ had got her happy ending. When I re-watched it, I was left with far more concerns and confusion at how cruel Mr & Mrs Wormwood – Matilda’s parents –were towards her and how awful Miss Trunchbull was to everyone.

That said, there is still loads to love. Throughout the film there is definitely the feeling of nostalgia from your childhood, however it is now paired with cleverly written songs by Tim Minchin. One to note in particular is one of the opening songs called ‘School Song’. The whole song is spell binding when you realise that the lyrics are written in alphabetical order.

Overall, the film is bursting with bright colours and fun and is instantly inviting. The musical has dark undertones throughout, due to Miss Trunchbull’s questionable treatment towards the pupils of her school. But in the end Matilda gets her happy ending and is

surrounded by people who love her. Her bravery changes not only her life but the lives of those around her!

As Matilda says ‘Even if you’re little, you can do a lot, you mustn’t let a little thing like ‘little’ stop you’ so if you can take anything away from the film remember that no matter who you are you can also change the world.

Roald Dahl’s Matilda was recently adapted into a highly anticipated musical movie. Read what Lisa Moore, Digital Membership Communications Officer, had to say about the re-telling of this Care Experienced story.

ON SET AT

In October, I went along to the Outlander information session at Who Cares? Scotland. That night I met Kyrie who works at Outlander, and she told us a whole host of information about the film and TV industry including: information on all the different roles, what working in film and TV is like and about the application process.

I was offered the opportunity to be a runner on set for a day. I was feeling a bit nervous but the excitement took over as working in this industry has always been a dream of mine.

Before the day arrived, I had already looked up what a runner’s duties were and I couldn’t wait to get there. I knew from the moment Kyrie phoned that this was going to be a great learning opportunity for me - I just didn’t know how much I was going to love it.

On the day, I was immediately introduced to the head runner who I would be answering to. My role consisted of doing a lot of little jobs, like moving props out of the way, moving them back into position and blocking off certain areas to ensure cars couldn’t pass (which could interfere with sounds when shooting). Another big part of my role was ensuring everyone was where they needed to be.

My advice for anyone is: apply for traineeships, make links with people currently working in film and TV and believe you can do it. If you get the opportunity to be on set, I would also say – wrap up warm! You never know where you are going to be, I was in a field for 10 hours.

A thing I really loved on the day was when they shout ‘Cast In’ and everyone huddles together to watch the actors perform the scene. It gives everyone the chance to know exactly what is needed for the specific scene. This means that if they are shooting a different angle, all of the crew know where they need to be and what props need to be on. It also helps them make sure the background of the shot is clear. Basically, it helps make sure everyone is on the same page. That was something else I loved - you get to see the importance of every crew member on that set.

Since getting this opportunity, I feel really grateful as I’ve now got my foot in the door of the industry, which can be really hard to get into. My advice for anyone is: apply for traineeships, make links with people currently working in film and TV and believe you can do it. If you get the opportunity to be on set, I would also say – wrap up warm! You never know where you are going to be, I was in a field for 10 hours.

I’m honestly so thankful for this opportunity and can’t thank Outlander enough. Everyone I spoke to was incredible and they all had so much experience and knowledge to pass on to me. From this experience I have now been offered more work as a runner which I’m really looking forward to.

Josh, a Who Cares? Scotland member, got to spend a day working on the set of hit tv show Outlander. Find out exactly what it takes to be a runner on a real life set.

Paula’s Trip to the Irn Bru Carnival

Member, Paula, took a thrillseeking trip to the Irn Bru Carnival. Read all about her day and find out which dizzying ride was her favourite.

When did you go to the Irn Bru Carnival?

I went on a Saturday afternoon just before Christmas.

Who did you go with?

I went with two of my housemates and two staff members.

How did you hear about the Carnival?

I heard about it from adverts. I really wanted to go and had to wait two weeks until we went.

Do you enjoy rides and rollercoasters?

Oh yes! I knew I would enjoy the Irn-Bru Carnival because I’ve been on rollercoasters before. I love them!

I’ve been to loads of theme parks, including Flamingo Land, Alton Towers and Blackpool. My favourite is Alton Towers because it has more rides than the rest – so many rides to scream on!

What’s the Irn-Bru Carnival like?

The Irn-Bru Carnival is different to other theme parks as it’s indoors. It’s at the SEC in Glasgow. Did you know it’s Europe’s largest indoor carnival? When we arrived, we were given 10 tokens to use on the rides. Each ride costs one token. This is how I spent my tokens:

• 2 tokens on the Waltzers.

• 3 tokens on the Sticky Wall

• 5 tokens on the Void – a fast rollercoaster which goes upside down lots of times.

The rides made me feel happy, excited and a bit scared!

Any memorable moments?

Once the sticky wall ride came to a stop, there was a girl on the ride who was so dizzy she crashed into me. I tried to help her up, but I was so dizzy too! We were crashing into everything. It was funny.

Any downsides to the carnival?

It was very busy and there was a long queue at each ride. But it was 200% worth it.

Did you have anything to eat when you were there?

I had a burger, chips and a Fanta. It was amazing. One of the staff members almost spewed up her food after going on the sticky wall! She was embarrassed.

How does the Irn-Bru Carnival compare to Alton Towers then?

I would give the Carnival 10 out of 10, but Alton Towers is still the best, at 100 out of 100.

Would you recommend the Carnival to others?

The sticky wall was one of my favourites. It makes you stick to the wall and it goes round super-fast. You feel like you’re going to fall - but you don’t.

Oh yes. I would recommend everyone to go to it. I know I’ll be going back when it runs again next year. A highlight of the year!

Phenomenal Photography

We love hearing all about your passions. In this issue we’re spotlighting the photography talents of Leilah from The Highlands.

Hi, my name is Leilah and I am 13 years old. I live in Ardnamurchan. I have a few hobbies but the one I love

the most is photography. I am self-taught. I hope I can go on a photography course when I am older. I use my Kodak Pixpro camera and my Huawei phone for taking photos. The photographs that I have included were taken locally and in Donegal, Ireland.

If you have a special interest or talent you’d like to share in the next issue email membership@ whocaresscotland.org or ask your Who Cares? worker to get in touch on your behalf.

IN IT TO WIN IT…

Once you have completed the IN IT TO WIN IT page, please return it to us by Tuesday 30th May 2023 to be in with a chance to win a £25 voucher of your choice. You can do this by giving the page to your WC?S APW, emailing a photo of your entry to membership@whocaresscotland.org or messaging us your entry on any of our social media platforms. You can also post it to 40 Wellington Street, Glasgow G2 6HJ. Good luck!

AROUND THE WORLD EASTER EGG HUNT

What are these famous landmarks and in which country would you find them? Circle the hidden egg in each picture.

CONTINUE THE HUNT…

You might have noticed there are Easter eggs hidden throughout this issue of SpeakOut but can you tell us how many there are? They could be anywhere from the front cover to page 29.

SPRINGTIME SING-A-LONG

Can you tell us the name of the song and the artists that these song lyrics come from?

1. Bunny is a rider. Satellite can’t find her.

QUIZMASTERS

1. Which country is famous for its production of tulips?

2. Now run, run away from the boys in blue. Oh, my car smells like chocolate.

2. Ewes recognize their lamb’s bleat. True or false?

3. It’s gonna be a bright (bright). Bright (bright) sunshiny day.

3. What do people roll down hills on Easter Sunday?

4. Do the clocks go forward or back an hour in Spring?

WINNER: Stacie (13) and David (20)

5. Who provides the voice for Peter Rabbit in the 2018 animated movie?

JUST FOR FUN… SPRING WORDSEARCH

Solve the clues to find all 13 words

An Easter hat (6 letters)

He brings you chocolate eggs (5 letters)

You eat a lot of this at Easter (9 letters)

Many of them are born in Spring (5 letters)

Flowers most commonly red and yellow (5 letters)

Yellow flowers (8 letters)

Little white flowers popping up in February (8 letters)

They say you’ll stay young forever if you wash your face in the May… (3 letter word)

You roll these down a hill on Easter Sunday (3 letters)

What flowers bloom on trees? (7 letters)

You plant them in Autumn and they flower in Spring (5 letters)

You might need an umbrella for Spring… (7 letter word)

Baby frogs (7 letters)