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.
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