Why?
The ANV AMPLIFY awards aim to champion and recognise the work of children in care councils and care leaver forums. They were held in October 2024 (Amplify – Coram Voice) – Wandsworth’s ‘Black In Care’ (BIC) Council were nominated for the ‘Voice award’.
What?
Historically, black males experience more challenges during their time in care than other groups. This is partly attributed to stereotypical societal attitudes which exacerbates black males’ experiences of being in and leaving care.
BIC was created to give young black males who are looked-after or care-experienced in Wandsworth a voice and a safe space to meet and inspire others. The group is an opportunity to share challenges, difficulties and positive experiences. The aim of the group is to try and understand their collective experiences and to try and improve them by collaborating on projects.
BIC meet monthly to discuss topics that affect young people such as budgeting, education, employment, health, housing, and relationships. They discuss aspirations, learn life skills together (from confidence building workshops to cooking clubs) and go on activity days.
What difference did it make?
Feedback from young people involved in the BIC Council has been very positive:
“I didn’t know what to expect. The other young people were nice, and we all shared similar stories, so it is easy for us to relate to each other.”
“The workshop has given me a safe space to express myself”.
“It was really good!”
“I want this workshop every week. I’m going to tell my friends!”
“I felt comfortable being supported by the two staff members and the other young people”.
“I struggle to express myself, but this group is helping me to open up.”