Three of our children at By the Bridge with Cambian attended a consultation afternoon with The Office of The Children’s Commissioner and the Minister of State for Children and Families on Tuesday 28 November 2017. The event, which was held between the Department for Education and Westminster, saw 12 looked-after children from across the country share their views and opinions on their experiences as part of the review of fostering being currently undertaken in England.
By the Bridge Education, Participation and Achievements Manager, Abbee McLatchie, said: “All three children, who are part of our forum groups within the South, were impeccable, representing themselves and BtBwC perfectly and really showcasing just what fabulous young people we have. They made a brilliant impression and hopefully will influence the review of fostering well.”
The roundtable discussion included topics such as promoting positive relationships with foster families, experiences with social workers and the biggest challenges faced by children in care today.
Abbee added, “They left the Minister, Robert Goodwill MP, with some valuable points to ponder and were all great advocates for children in care through the UK. Our young people were enthusiastic and engaged, and represented themselves and our organisation consicientously and with pride. My personal highlight was one of our children singing to the Commissioner, Anne Longfield, who I am sure she now won’t forget in a hurry!”
Following on from the visit, one of our children will be spending the day shadowing Baroness Evans (Chief of the House of Lords) next week and the other two have asked to meet again to compose a follow-up letter to both the Commissioner and Minister to ensure that they successfully get the points across that they feel are most important. All three have also agreed to write a piece for their Young People’s regional newsletters regarding their visit.
By the Bridge are extremely passionate about changing the face of fostering. We aim to raise awareness in all sectors of society so that the general population understands the challenges that foster children face, and can better empathise with their situation.
If you’re interested in becoming a foster parent with By the Bridge and want to look after our inspiring children then click here for more information.
