Why?
Dudley’s Children in Care Council, ‘Make A Difference’ (M.A.D), wanted to communicate what children and young people enjoy doing with the professionals who support them, including Social Workers, Foster Carers and Independent Reviewing Officers (IROs). They wanted to share how these workers can develop positive and meaningful relationships with children and young people.
What?
Members of M.A.D asked children in Dudley aged 8-10 and young people aged 11-18, about what a ‘superhero worker’ looks like. Members of M.A.D lead these consultations which took place at events organized across the summer. They asked questions like, “What do you enjoy doing with your Social Worker, Foster Carer or IRO?” and “How would you rate them?”
M.A.D grouped responses into common themes and worked with a graphic designer to create three separate ‘Dear Worker….’ posters and leaflets. The posters let workers know what children and young people enjoy doing with them, and how best to work with them. They have also created a video which is shared with new social workers and ASYE during their induction.
What difference did it make?
Feedback from M.A.D members showed that they felt listened to by Dudley Council.
Workers have praised the posters, highlighting their clarity and stating that it helps them to prepare for meetings, and keep children and young people’s needs front and centre.
This work was also included in ANV’s national report: ‘What children and young people wanted to say to the Care Review’