Between Chapters themes

Between Chapters: Key considerations for life story work with care leavers

9 emerging themes from year one A Blue Cabin project, funded by the Esmée Fairbairn Foundation

What are we noticing so far?

Across Year One of Between Chapters, we’ve been listening, mapping and reflecting on how life story work is experienced by care leavers aged 16-25.

These themes capture what’s emerging.

Between Chapters

www.wearebluecabin.com/betweenchapters

Theme 1: Life story work for care leavers looks different in different contexts

Theme 2: Identity questions do not stop at 18

Theme 3: Existing tools and approaches are largely child-focused

Theme 4: Accessing records is complex, time-consuming and emotionally demanding

Theme 5: Trust, relationships and relational continuity are key

Theme 6: Ownership, choice and consent are central

Theme 7: Creative approaches and evolving formats offer safety and accessibility

Theme 8: Practitioners want to do this well, but need more support

Theme 9: There is often a gap between intention and implementation

Explore the learning in more depth

Read the blog Listen to the podcast Follow Between Chapters as it moves into year two

Led by Blue Cabin in partnership with Mary-anne Hodd Funded by the Esmée Fairbairn Foundation

Between Chapters

www.wearebluecabin.com/betweenchapters