SpeakOut Summer 26

SUMMER 2026

WHO CARES? SCOTLAND MAGAZINE

Making

History Check out how we done it on pages 12 and 13

LEAH’S LOVE-HATE RELATIONSHIP WITH RUNNING P.10-11

OUT AND ABOUT WITH PAIGE P.14

FROM CARE TO CROWN WITH CHARLOTTE P.16-17

WHAT’S IN STORE FOR YOU THIS SUMMER? P.18

WELCOME SECTION

It’s time for a summer to remember with Who Cares?

Scotland!

S

o far this year, hundreds of Care Experienced people have come together through Who Cares? Scotland to connect, have fun and make their voices heard. We’ve celebrated the launch of our new group in Shetland, seen another brilliant Care Day take place, completed the third year of the Empowered Voices Programme and watched local groups across Scotland continue to thrive.

Whether you’ve been coming along to groups for years or are thinking about joining for the first time, there are lots of ways to get involved. From Glasgow and Edinburgh to Paisley, Shetland and beyond, groups are a chance to meet other Care Experienced people and feel part of a community that understands you. And there’s even more to look forward to, with our annual Summer Festival just around the corner!

With summer here, it’s also the perfect time to make the most of your Who Cares? Scotland membership.

We’ve worked with businesses across Scotland to bring you some fantastic offers and discounts, helping you enjoy days out and make new memories.

You could visit the zoo, explore the Sea Life Centre at Loch Lomond, try water sports on the north coast, go gokarting in Glasgow, visit museums or enjoy a break at a holiday park.

Whatever your summer looks like, we hope you’ll make the most of the opportunities available to you as a Who Cares? Scotland member.

Scan the QR code to find out more about groups, events and discounts.

Remember – if you have moved address or changed contact details, email us at membership@ whocaresscotland.org so we keep your details up to date!

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Inside this issue: 2

Welcome Page

3

Meet your new CEO!

LIFESTYLE 4

Budget MasterChef

5

Holly’s Handmade Creations

6

Issue of the Day: Bystander Effect

7

My Role Model

NEWS & EVENTS 8

Catch up with Carolelynne

9

Empowered Voices Programme: Round 3 Complete

10-11 Running: The Solo Sport I Love to Hate and Hate to Love 12-13 Action on Advocacy... in the Act

ENTERTAINMENT 14

Out and About: Camera Obscura

15

Trendspotting with Leah

16-17 Care to Crown 18

Written in the Stars

19 OUR ADVOCATES FLIP OVER FOR SPEAK OUT JUNIOR 2

Where’s Buddy?

3

Did You Know?

4

Mini Makers

5

In It to Win It

WELCOME

Welcome back to

SpeakOut! r members to

ou What do you want We have a new CEO – Kay McKerrell! We the organisation sat down with Kay to learn all about her and experience from ars? over the next few ye what she plans to bring to her new role.

What excites you most ab out becoming the CEO?

I’m really looking forward to helping shape the future with members, making sure that what we do reflects what they tell us they want and need.

I want them to feel that Who Cares? Scotland stands beside them, helps them understand and uphold their rights, and gives them real opportunities to influence change. I also want them to feel part of a community and build relationships, confidence and belonging through their involvement with us.

It’s the chance to lead an organisation that has changed so many lives, including mine. Who Cares? Scotland exists to make sure Care Experienced people are heard, respected and treated fairly. I know firsthand how important that is. Being the CEO means I’m determined to grow and strengthen our leading work that I’m truly passionate about, membership offer, so that we can provide more ensuring Scotland provides the system and opportunities, more benefits and more ways for support that every Care Experienced person members all across Scotland to engage in ways that deserves. matter to them. e r Read mo is about th Can you share a moment during your on pages 12and 13! time here that

has really stuck with you?

There is one moment which stood out recently - the passing of the Children (Care, Care Experience and Services Planning) (Scotland) Act. I was travelling at the time, watching on my phone.

When I heard members views quoted in the debate and saw in real time legislation being shaped by lived experience, it meant so much. When the vote took place, and it was supported by all political parties, I started crying which caused a bit of a stir amongst my fellow passengers! I know the Act is not the solution to everything, but it’s a hugely positive step.

We’re excited to have Kay as our new CEO and we hope you are too. Her understanding of being Care Experienced and the challenges facing the community, combined with her skills and knowledge makes her perfect for the role.

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LIFESTYLE

Budget MasterChef Wash and pierce the 4 potatoes all over.

Quick, che a easy meals p and to make!

This editio n it is...

Chris and Jamie’s summer b aked potato.

Prepare the tuna mayo and place to side.

Pop on a plate in microwave for 25 mins on full power.

Remove potatoes from microwave and place in the Air Fryer drawers. Air fry at 200 for 20 mins for a really crispy skin and a lovely soft middle.

Heat up the beans in microwave.

Plate up potato, slice in quarters across the top, pop on some butter, salt and pepper and then top with your favourite combo of tuna, beans, cheese.

Serve with a wee side salad for the ultimate summer baked potato feast!

Delicious!

Ingredients you will need:

Total cos t

£7.74

4 large baking potatoes £1.11

2 tins of beans £0.84

2 tins of tuna £1.98

1 tub of mayonnaise £0.95

Pack of grated cheese £1.99

Summer bistro salad pack £0.89

Got a tasty and cheap recipe you’d like to share?

Submit your ideas to comms@whocaresscotland.org or scan the QR code.

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Less than £2 per he ad for four p eople!

LIFESTYLE

W

e’re making space in SpeakOut for members to share their hobbies and interests. Next up is Holly, who loves some arts and crafts, and shared this passion with her advocate for this issue!

Holly is an amazing 16-year-old, from Falkirk, who has an abundance of talent and has designed, created, made and shared, so many of her quirky goods.

When the pandemic struck she decided she would like to try different crafts and found this to be a brilliant way to fill her days.

Last Christmas, Holly finger knitted four blankets in different colours all in very thick, soft wool. Each blanket took around 15 hours to make. Along with her mum, they were able to identify five older ladies in their community who they thought might like a blanket for the long cold winter nights – they were so thrilled and sent lovely thank you cards in return.

Holly is also a huge Harry Potter fan and loves to attend

Anime Conventions where most people attending, dress up.

For a convention, Holly made several friendship bracelets and gave them to people who wore clothes that matched the colours of her bracelets. She just loves seeing people happy.

Another thing Holly has found she likes to do is making coasters using dried flowers and leaves set in resin. They look stunning.

Holly is also a talented artist and painted two lovely canvases freehand for her mum!

Rather than just bin an empty jar she put a design on it and uses it for pens etc. Along with the jar, she kept two empty bottles, put some lights inside them and they make lovely decorations in her room – very little goes to waste.

Holly’s mum plans to get Holly a sewing machine as she is very interested in designing and making her clothes and is already planning her first outfit which she can’t wait to model!

Do you have an interesting hobby and would like to share and talk about it in the next edition of SpeakOut? Scan this QR code to get involved!

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LIFESTYLE

Issue of the Day:

The Bystander Effect W

e’re making space in SpeakOut for members to write about an issue they want to highlight.

Next up is Michael!

There’s something to be said about how I find other people tend to navigate problems and how much we tend to be present for one another.

For this, I want to cover a topic I feel very strongly about - the bystander effect.

I’m someone who cares a lot about being there for others and advocating, speaking up for others who can’t do as much themselves. I think it’s important when others do the same.

But outside of that, I think through my own personal experience, you get a lot of situations where people are just all ‘bark and no bite’. When the time actually arises to do the right thing, I find a lot of people freeze up and don’t know what to do.

Recently, I was at the KFC just by Glasgow Central. It was the middle of the day, my friends and I were out just as usual and we decided to sit in for food. Suddenly, there’s someone who has yelled and a loud thud noise

at the stairs. After I got up with one of my other concerned friends, there was a man who fell down 13 steps and hit his head on the way down, so he was unconscious. I used my first aid skills and had a member of staff come up whilst I was on the phone to the ambulance.

The point was never to get praised or a gold star for ‘doing the right’ thing. But it was because I knew that was someone who is loved. That was a family member, a friend or a loved one and if I hadn’t acted as quickly as I did, that man would not have survived.

During all that time, no one else had come to check on the man despite everyone having heard it.

It occurs to me in moments like those, that people often have an “every man for themselves” mentality, so to speak. This does far more harm than good. It doesn’t take much to do the kindest thing, even if it inconveniences yourself or is stressful.

You can find a way to help another person where you can. If I can do it, then you can as well.

Be the change you want to see. Look past speak yourself for a moment and let your actions uld far louder than your words ever could. It co I save someone’s life in more ways than one. re think we could all do with letting in a bit mo love and compassion in our lives.

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LIFESTYLE

My Role Model Meet Charlie, a Who Cares? Scotland member, who has written about the person who inspires her the most.

T

oday I want to talk about my role model, my adopted mum, the person who changed my life in the most powerful way.

A role model is someone who shapes who you are and who you hope to become. For me, that person is my mum. She didn’t give birth to me, but she chose me, and that choice means more than words can ever explain.

My mum stepped into my life with open arms and an open heart. She gave me a home, safety and love when I needed it most after leaving a domestic relationship. Through her, I learned that family isn’t about where you come from, but about who stands by you, especially when life feels uncertain or hard.

She is my role model because of her unconditional love. No matter my mistakes, my fears or my flaws, she has never turned away.

She listens to me, comforts me and reminds me that I matter. Her love has helped me heal, grow and believe in myself.

She is also my role model because of her strength. Life isn’t easy. There are challenges, sacrifices and moments that test her patience and resilience. Yet my mum faces everything

with courage and compassion. Even when things are tough, she stays strong, not just for herself, but for me.

My mum believes in me even when I struggle to believe in myself. When I feel lost or unsure, she reminds me of my worth and pushes me to keep going. Because of her, I’ve learned that I am capable, deserving and never alone.

Most importantly, my mum taught me what love truly looks like. Love is showing up every day. Love is choosing someone again and again.

Love is giving without expecting anything in return. That is who she is.

My adopted mum is my hero. | am who | am today because of her, and | carry her love with me in everything | do.

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LIFESTYLE NEWS & EVENTS

Catch up with Carolelynne O

ur National Advocacy Helpline is available to any Care Experienced person, regardless of age or type of care. We also offer advice and guidance to those supporting Care Experienced people.

Every issue, we catch up with one of our lifelong advocates. This issue, Carolelynne shared useful information about the new Care Leaver payment.

The Scottish Government has introduced a £2,000 payment for young people leaving care.

The aim is to help ‘care leavers’ with the costs of moving into adult and independent life.

Am I eligible for Care Leaver Payment?

You can get the payment if: • You were officially “looked after” by a local authority on or after your 16th birthday • And you left care (or continuing care) on or after 1 April 2026 This includes young people who were in: • Foster care • Residential care • Kinship care • Secure care • Looked after at home • Some adopted young people • Unaccompanied asylum seekers

Who will pay the Care Leaver Payment?

The council that was responsible for you pays it (the one that looked after you after age 16).

Do I need to apply for the Care Leaver Payment?

No, the payment should be given to you automatically after you leave care or continuing care.

When will I receive the Care Leaver Payment?

You should get it as soon as possible after leaving care or continuing care. Your social worker should discuss it with you while planning your move into adulthood.

How will I receive the Care Leaver Payment?

The guidance says you can choose how you receive the payment, including • Paid in a lump sum • Paid to you in instalments • Vouchers/gift cards • Direct purchases, with support from your social worker to decide what best meets your needs.

What can I spend the Care Leaver Payment on?

The payment is meant to help with setting up adult life.

There are no restrictions on how it is spent.

You could spend it on: • Furniture • Rent or deposits • Household items • Education or training • Travel

Does it affect benefits or tax?

The guidance says the payment will not affect your current benefit or tax entitlement.

Will I also receive Section 29 monies

A ‘care leaver’ may be entitled to a payment under section 29 of the Children (Scotland) Act 1995 (sometimes called a Setting Up Home Grant) from their local authority.

If you are eligible for section 29 monies, you will receive both this payment and the Care Leaver Payment.

If you have further questions about the Care Leaver Payment you can: • Speak to your social worker • Speak to your advocate • Speak to our Helpline (Open Mon to Friday 12pm -4pm) Phone: 0330 107 7540

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NEWS &SECTION EVENTS

EMPOWERED VOICES PROGRAMME Round 3 Complete!

T

he Empowered Voices Programme (EVP) is a commitment from us to help the care community learn vital campaigning, activism and public speaking skills. Participants make connections with other influential Care Experienced people and have the opportunity to drive change together.

Hear from one of our participants who reflects on completing the programme...

Hello! My name is Miranda and I am delighted to have been part of the 2025/26 Empowered Voices Programme.

Right from the start, when I chatted with Kenny about what I hoped to get from the programme and how it would perhaps help me in my life, I was blown away by the warmth and acceptance I felt from the Who Cares Scotland? team.

What did | learn ?

So much!

Top of my ‘knowledge gained’ list is the insight into campaigning from both Who Cares? Scotland and an external speaker, Laura Anderson (@ LessWasteLaura), who shared her experiences of developing a campaign to ban disposable vapes.

Having a clear goal, identifying and knowing your audience, along with staying focused, but being flexible enough to make the most of opportunities, all stood out as key aspects of campaigning.

Top of my ‘experience gained’ list was speaking to camera while being interviewed about pizza toppings by Ewan Petrie from STV. If you’d asked me to be interviewed on camera before the EVP, I might have run a mile or two but the opportunity

As the weekends got underway, the staff, volunteers, my fellow participants and all the workshop leaders were all incredibly cheerful and welcoming. This created a friendly respectful space where we could laugh, work through fears about public speaking (personally speaking, this was a big one) and learn about how we want to use our voices.

to do this about something light-hearted, in a supportive environment made it safe and enjoyable. As a result, I feel much more prepared for and comfortable about the idea of public speaking.

Perhaps most importantly, for me, as someone who left care over 30 years ago, I now know other Care Experienced people. I feel very privileged and grateful to have met other people who understand the complexity that care experience can bring to your life.

I know it can be a bit scary doing something new, with people you might not know, but I’d highly recommend EVP as a safe and supportive way to expand your comfort zone.

Applications open very soon, keep an eye out on our social media if you are interested!

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Running NEWS & EVENTS

The Solo Sport I Love to Hate and Hate to Love Written by Leah Flint

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NEWS & EVENTS

R

unning has skyrocketed in popularity recently, especially after the London Marathon, where we saw Sebastian Sawe fly across the finish line in an incredible time of 1 hour and 59 minutes.

Watching that ahead of my own first marathon, the Edinburgh Marathon, sparked something in me.

Suddenly, my goal of running 3 hours and 45 minutes felt possible if I just went all ten toes in.

But the Edinburgh Marathon had different plans for me.

After a night of restless sleep and nightmares about coming last, it’s safe to say I started race day on the wrong foot. Especially because I’d barely run that week thanks to “tapering” the marathon tradition where you intentionally run less to prepare your body, while simultaneously convincing yourself you’ve forgotten how to run entirely. Taper week made me hate the sport I normally love.

You’d be surprised by the amount of science involved in marathon running. Carb loading. Slowing your pace so you can somehow run faster. And not to mention the sore jaw you get from reminding everyone that yes, you are running a marathon.

Feeling nervous, anxious, non-verbal, and extremely hungry, I got into the car with my foster dad, who was dropping me at the station. Habitually, he switched on the radio, and that’s when I heard Beth Anne and Nicola McCartney speaking about the 100 Voices Care Experience Project, a project exploring the experiences of Care Experienced people through their own stories, something I had participated in myself.

My foster dad and I looked at each other in disbelief.

What were the chances? On the very morning, I was about to attempt one of the hardest things I’d ever

done physically, I was reminded of where I came from.

Beth Anne said, “Nobody wants to be in care, but you wouldn’t be who you are today without that experience.”

That stayed with me for the entire race.

Nobody told me to run a marathon. There was no huge reason behind it. But deep down, I knew I needed to do it because it would change me forever… much like care had.

The Scottish sun, however, had other plans. Who would’ve thought the hottest day imaginable would land on marathon day in Edinburgh?

The first 5K felt amazing. I remembered I was a runner despite taper week and a stomach full of pasta.

I even managed to hit a half-marathon PB thanks to the downhill sections, the incredible spectators and strangers spraying runners with garden hoses.

But around 30K, things turned dark.

It felt like a scene from The Hunger Games. People were collapsed at the side of the road. Others crawled toward the finish line clutching water bottles like lifelines. My legs were bleeding from the heat and swelling, and every step hurt.

The final 15K were painful in every sense, but I kept thinking about what I’d heard that morning: you don’t always choose the hard things that shape you.

Growing up in care taught me resilience. So if I could survive the cards I’d been dealt as a child, I could survive this.

I crossed the finish line in 4 hours and 2 minutes; not the time I wanted, but without regret. Running may be called a solo sport, but nobody really does it alone. We run beside people. We cheer strangers on. We raise money. We remind others they can keep going too.

And that’s why running will always be my favourite sport in the world. You never know who you might inspire.

That’s also the spirit behind Run Tribe Glasgow - our social running club for all paces, where nobody gets left behind, even if we end up walking parts of it together. If you want to come along, get in touch with me on Instagram at @runtribe_glasgow @leahflint

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NEWS & EVENTS

Action on Advocacy... in the Act! W

e’ve been campaigning for the right to independent advocacy to be included in the Children (Care, Care Experience and Services Planning) (Scotland) Bill. And we’ve been successful!

Every Care Experienced person will soon have this right, no matter where they live, what their Care Experience is or how old they are.

Hear from some of our members who campaigned to make this happen...

What matters m ost to you about the Bill passing?

“That it shows a level of commitm ent to keep the Promise from the Scottish Governm ent.”

“All of it. It will ch ange lives if it is properly implemented!”

“Seeing such an important step fo rward towards the Promise bein g kept and also be ing supported unanimously!”

th Who Cares? Scotland “I worked in partnership wi ough my ed and included in the Bill thr aftercare rights to be extend petition.” all began.”

Voices campaign - where it “I was involved in the 1000 ment and nce when we went to Parlia “I felt like we had real influe and ideas Hearing other members words ee. itt mm Co the th wi ke spo nce the oyed using my voice to influe expressed was powerful. I enj Bill like this.”

te? e final deba of the h t g in h c t a How was w y to connect with membersch to the

it u the opportun e given so m “It gave me ced community who hav sense of unity that en sa Care Experi the Promise. There wa community is.” r e v c li e e th are work to d w powerful o ery cool. h to l a re which was v into ry e ll a makes it so g e th ing in rst time up nter the process of com fi y m s a w t “I se g!” watching law enthusiast in me, excitin To be there s c ti nity has for the poli l, our commu a n o ti o m effect was, e e de m e debate ma “Watching th to get to this stage.” ard worked so h

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e Bill?

How have you influenced th to push for

What do you wa nt to

see happen next?

“I would like to se e voice continue to implementation of shape the th to address any ba e Bill and partnership working rriers in this stag e.”

“The Promise be ing kept with care ful consideration on what comes ne xt af Bill is implemente ter 2030 and ensuring the d successfully.”

NEWS & EVENTS

Why does this matter?

Let’s step back in time...

For over 50 years, reports and inquiries have said the same thing: young people need a say in the decisions that affect their lives.

1975 – Children Act 1975

1977 – Who Cares? Young people in care speak out

This Act introduced new duties to ‘ascertain the wishes and feelings’ of young people in adoption decisions and local authority care.

However, Who Cares? Scotland was formed in1978 because Care Experienced people still felt excluded.

This book was written by a group of Care Experienced people calling for change.They wanted the right to participate in decision making and were excluded from important decisions that affected their lives. They all wanted to have ‘a real influence over those decisions’ to prepare them for living independently.

1986 – Who Cares? Scotland Charter of Rights for Young People in Care Over 100 young people attended our first conference, where they created the Charter of Rights. This included calls for the right to have everything discussed and explained before a ‘review’ and to be consulted about major changes.

2014 - Interpreting the Children and Young People Act Report All of the 87 people spoken to said that a right to advocacy should be available to help young people participate fully in all decisionmaking processes. They said that a lack of advocacy during crucial times meant that they felt let down, not part of the decision-making process and isolated.

1992 – Skinner Report The Skinner Report stated that ‘a great many young people and children, do not feel involved in decisions, either about their own lives, or about the home in which they live.’

It recommended that young people should have the right to be involved in decisions about their lives and the importance of advocacy.

2020 – The Promise Nicola Sturgeon pledged to implement the Independent Care Review’s recommendations by 2030 to transform Scotland’s care system. This included: ‘Care Experienced children and adults must have the right and access to independent advocacy, at all stages of their experience of care and beyond. Advocacy must be available for all care experienced individuals for as long as they need it.’

2026 – The Children (Care, Care Experience and Services Planning) (Scotland) Act has passed and received royal assent!

For decades, it’s been clear that young people need and want a say in the decisions that affect their lives. The right to independent advocacy makes sure that happens that Care Experienced people know their rights and options.

The next step is putting the Act into action to make real-life change for our community. At Who Cares? Scotland, we’ll be making sure this right is properly implemented all across Scotland.

We’re also incredibly proud to have been shortlisted and highly commended for ‘Campaign of the Year’ at the Scottish Charity Awards for this campaign!

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ENTERTAINMENT SECTION

Out and About... at Camera Obscura

Join our members as they’re out and about. This edition, Paige Ross visited Camera Obscura in Edinburgh!

D

uring the May Bank Holiday weekend, we visited Camera Obscura and World of Illusions in Edinburgh. It was one of the highlights of our trip. I would highly recommend it to anyone visiting the city.

We were able to take advantage of the student discount, which brought the ticket price to around £20 each. One feature we particularly liked was that the tickets are valid all day, allowing you to enter and leave as many times as you wish. This is especially useful in Edinburgh where the weather can be unpredictable.

Fortunately, we were blessed with excellent weather, so we enjoyed both the indoor exhibits and the outdoor viewing areas.

Located a short walk from Edinburgh Castle at the top of the historic Royal Mile, the attraction combines fascinating history with modern interactive experiences. We arrived around lunchtime and easily spent a couple of hours exploring everything on offer.

Want to get out and about?

The staff were fantastic. They were friendly, knowledgeable and took the time to explain many of the illusions and exhibits. They made sure you got the most from the experience. One standout feature was the incredible panoramic view from the rooftop, which offers a wonderful perspective of Edinburgh and its famous landmarks.

With more than 100 hands-on exhibits, there is something to entertain visitors of all ages. From mindbending optical illusions to interactive displays that challenge your senses, every floor offers something new and surprising. Whether you’re visiting as a family, a couple, or with friends, it’s a fun and memorable experience.

If you’re planning a trip to Edinburgh, Camera Obscura & World of Illusions is definitely worth adding to your itinerary. We had a fantastic time and would happily visit again.

We’re on the lookout for members who have an eye for reviews, from local restaurants to films, we want your honest opinions!

What we offer: Vouchers to help cover costs What we need: Honest reviews of your experience - just a few paragraphs about the food, service, atmosphere, or film quality.

Scan the QR code below to feature in the next edition!

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Win 2x tickets to Camera Obscura!

All you need to do is answer this question - When was the first photograph ever taken?

Scan this QR code for your chance to win.

We will get in touch with the winners on the 31st July

ENTERTAINMENT

Trendspotting From film and TV to books, music, and podcasts, we’ve rounded up the most talked-about trends shaping the world today! This edition, Leah, is talking about the rise of matcha.

M

atcha has been on a steady rise. In fact, if you don’t know what it is, I’d have to ask whether you’ve been living under a rock.

And if you’ve been under that rock, I’d suggest emerging long enough to see what all the fuss is about.

As someone who has only developed a love for coffee in the past year and can count on one hand the number of times I’ve drunk matcha, I wasn’t exactly the target audience. My encounters came from well-meaning friends insisting, “You have to try it.” I resisted.

Matcha dates back centuries. Powdered tea preparation originated during China’s Song Dynasty, a period known for its flourishing arts and culture.

Later, a Japanese Zen Buddhist monk named Eisai introduced the practice to Japan, particularly the region of Uji, which remains famous for producing some of the world’s finest matcha.

Historically, matcha wasn’t just a trendy drink. It was used by monks to aid meditation and by samurai warriors seeking focus, energy and mental clarity.

Which makes me wonder how it eventually found its way onto the menus of every major coffee chain.

I’ve always been slightly sceptical of trends. The matcha I’d tasted before was often grainy, grassy and, if I’m being honest, a little grim. I continued drinking my coffee while the rest of the world turned green.

That was until I was walking home and spotted a sign outside Starbucks advertising an Ube Vanilla Matcha.

Curiosity got the better of me.

What caught my attention wasn’t the matcha but the promise of velvety vanilla. I asked the barista if I could try a sample. To my surprise, he said yes.

It didn’t taste like any matcha I’d tried before. It was sweet - perhaps too sweet - yet I enjoyed it.

I’m not sure whether I gained the focus of a samurai warrior or the peace of a Buddhist monk. And I doubt Eisai imagined his meditation drink would one day be buried beneath layers of syrup and social media trends.

Still, there was something enjoyable about trying something new. Sometimes a moment of curiosity, even just a free sip of an overly sweet matcha, can brighten your day a little.

Maybe that’s the real reason it’s become so popular.

S o, today ask t yourself, if no hat Matcha then w our y r o f o d u o y would g? n i e b ll e w l a t n e m

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From Care ENTERTAINMENT

Meet Charlotte, a Care Experienced young person from Northampton who is empowering other Care Experienced women to develop their confidence and skills through pageantry.

What is a pageant?

A pageant is an event where contestants practice confidence, communication and self-expression through different “rounds.” The purpose is to show personality, courage and leadership… it’s not just about looking pretty!

Some of the rounds are: • Interview - This is the talking round. Judges ask questions to learn who you are, what you believe and how you think. It teaches confidence and using your voice.

• Opening Statement - Contestants say their name and sometimes a short message about themselves. This helps practice speaking clearly.

• Runway - Contestants model clothing while walking on stage. This is about posture, confidence and self-expression.

• Talent - Some pageants let contestants sing, dance, paint or perform another skill. This shows creativity and bravery.

• Platform - Contestants talk about causes they care about, like foster care, bullying or mental health.

This teaches leadership and compassion.

At its heart, a pageant is a structured way for people especially girls - to practice believing in themselves while being seen and heard by others. You can win prizes ranging from a car all the way to trips abroad!

When did you first enter?

After a year of living in my own flat, I realised I needed to enter. I just needed something. I was so isolated after leaving care and knew I needed to keep moving forward.

I was stable but stagnant. I didn’t want to regress. But I knew going to my local authority wasn’t the answer. I remembered seeing Miss Universe on my Instagram feed when I was a teen so on a whim I entered!

I knew that even if I didn’t winmy life would still change for the better. I looked at previous contestants and where their lives were now. There was a stark before and after in when they competed; sudden career pivots that included a Bafta nominated actress; a politician and Human rights lawyers. I just knew it was for me.

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to Crown!

ENTERTAINMENT

What’s your favourite pageant memory?

Probably filming TikToks backstage with the girls and crying with joy when my friend, Dani Latimer, won Miss Universe Great Britain. She was so supportive of me the entire weekend and knew it was my first major pageant. At one point, I slipped and she caught me before I fell onstage!

How can I enter?

If you’re Care Experienced, you can sign up for Care to Crown!

This is my social enterprise that supports Care Experienced women to enter pageants. A beauty queen is the ultimate girl next door. But that assumes a lot of privilege, right? Like having GCSEs, a stable place to live and a family network that will come to cheer you on. That’s not something we all get.

By the end of the programme, you’ll be to apply your new skills to your dream career.

If I can do it, so can you.

Would they let someone like me enter?

Yes. It’s so interesting that I initially thought being Care Experienced would be a scarlet letter because there are girls who have done potentially controversial campaigns. I think it’s just how you tell your story and ensure PR teams are aware so they can protect you if someone isn’t nice about it in the media.

The wording on many pageant applications “you must not have anything in your background that could bring the organisation into disrepute” - bothers me. Not because it’s strict, but because it can make people immediately think of the most

awful thing they’ve experienced and see it as a barrier, rather than recognising the supportive nature of the sisterhood.

For me, I was terrified that being in care would stop me from entering. Any Care Experienced person knows how degrading the process is of having to fight for your human rights to be maintained on a daily basis.

However, this became my strength. My campaign for care leavers won me two awards at Miss Universe Great Britain!

More pageant systems are recognising that not everyone has the same life “order” for when they achieve milestones.

Want to get involved?

If you would like to enter a pageant, you contact me via Hello@caretocrown.co.uk to chat about it! Even if you are unsure, I can help you decide if pagentry is right for you!

Follow my pageantry journey at @MissCharlotteLevy and see more of my platform at @caretocrown both on Instagram.

This article is not an endorsement from Who Cares? Scotland. Anyone who reaches out to Charlotte or signs up for her social enterprise does so at their own discretion.

17

SECTION ENTERTAINMENT

Written in the Stars Aries (Mar 21- Apr 19):

Things may move quickly but not everything needs immediate action.

Take your time before making any quick decisions.

Activity: Plan a spontaneous day trip. Pick a place you’ve never been to near you and explore it.

Taurus (Apr 20 - May 20):

Libra (Sep 23- Oct 22):

Focus on your personal growth and setting boundaries for the rest of the year Activity: Find a new singer or Youtuber that you like.

Scorpio (Oct 23- Nov 21):

You’ll find peace in slowing down and appreciating the small things.

Activity: Create a summer playlist with all of your favourite songs.

Tackle a task you’ve been putting off. It will bring a sense of accomplishment.

Activity: Write a letter to your future self and set a reminder to read it in a year.

Gemini (May 21- Jun 20):

Sagittarius (Nov 22- Dec 21):

Taking breaks could improve your focus in the long run.

Activity: Go and watch the sun rise and stay off your phone for it!

Cancer (Jun 21- Jul 22):

Treat yourself. Whether it’s some fun or quiet time alone - you choose!

Activity: Try a “no-phone hour” each day. Use that time to do something creative or active.

Leo (Jul 23- Aug 22):

Have some fun! Surround yourself with people who make you laugh.

Activity: Start a “done list.” Write down what you’ve already achieved each day.

Virgo (Aug 23- Sep 22):

A small change in your routine could open the door to something more interesting.

Activity: Take on a “try five new things” challenge. That can be food, music or a film as long as it’s something you wouldn’t normally choose.

18

Your quick guide to what summer might have in store for you

You may feel ready to take charge of a new situation. Hold back on making big moves. Focus on your current plans first.

Activity: Watch a film from a genre you never choose.

Capricorn (Dec 22- Jan 19):

Taking a bit of time to reset will help you feel more grounded going forward.

Activity: Declutter your phone apps/ photos

Aquarius (Jan 20- Feb 18):

You’re feeling lucky this year, so why not have a go at a competition or challenge?

Activity: Try a new podcast and go for a walk while listening

Pisces (Feb 19- Mar 20):

It’s time to learn a new skill. On YouTube, you can learn to sew or knit, the list goes on!

Activity: Spend a day being a tourist in your own city or town. Museums are free in Scotland!

NORTH

NORTH EAST

Leanne Murdoch Advocacy & Participation Manager North 07522 565 141

James Cameron Advocacy & Participation Co-ordinator Highland 07583 050 179

Jantine Van Loon APW Highland 07850 852 708

Carrie Anderson APW Moray 07743 943 776

Karen McDiarmid APW Highland 07743 943 779

Karen Monkman APW Orkney 07849 087 753

Eszter Biro APW Highland 07743 943 778

Leanne Goodlad APW Shetland 07702 662 817

WEST CENTRAL

Jane Donaldson Advocacy & Participation Manager North East 07841 033 100 Lynne Williamson APW Aberdeenshire/CHS Aberdeenshire 07712 869 576 Connie Ross APW CHS Aberdeen/CHS Aberdeenshire (mat cover) 07748494341

Iain MacIver APW Western Isles 07561 292 948

Jamie McAnally Advocacy & Participation Manager West Central 07712 870 328

Caroline Richardson Advocacy & Participation Manager Lanarkshire 07545 436 342

Laura Butler Falkirk and West Lothian APW (Mat Cover) 07561 292 085 Lou Carrick APW West Dunbartonshire 07743 944 435

Brenda Ann Murphy APW North Lanarkshire 07849 083 141

Carey Ross APW West Lothian 07743 943 773

Hayley Cohen APW 07743 943 775 Mary Bateman APW Falkirk and Stirling 07739 078 247

Rowena Taylor APW 07825 269 678 Donna Kriel APW 07743 936 550 Shona Sanger APW Dundee and Aberlour 07712 866 835 Scarlet Grasham APW Angus 07810 570222

LANARKSHIRE

Morag Cantwell Advocacy Co-ordinator Kibble 07523 512 612

Paige Anderson APW Stirling and Seamab 07849 086 432

Abigail Pass APW Angus/ Siblings CHS Aberdeenshire 07810 570 222

Elle Scott APW North Lanarkshire 07849 086 188

Lynn Johnson APW Kibble and West Dunbartonshire 07701 224 000

Jacqueline McLachlan APW North Lanarkshire 07841 033 020

Mrinalini Elliott APW Kibble and Good Shepherd 07701 224 001

Kerry Connor APW North Lanarkshire 07841 033 019

Laura McAleer APW Kibble and East Dunbartonshire 07353 005 208

Lisa Allan APW North Lanarkshire 07790 341 265 Mags Corr APW North Lanarkshire 07841 033 018 Russell Stewart APW North Lanarkshire 07849 083 248 Lynne Morris APW South Lanarkshire 07786 068 138 Michelle McAtear APW South Lanarkshire 07841 033 107 Aimee Turnbull APW Lanarkshire 07970 515 442

SOUTH EAST SOUTH WEST Sharon Berrie Advocacy & Participation Manager South West 07739 078 246 Heather Nailard APW Argyll & Bute 07769 325 000 Pamela Hynes APW Argyll & Bute, Crossreach 07739 078 244

Kirsty McFadyen APW East Ayrshire 07702 676 751

Donald Walker APW 07712 865 958

Denise McMillan APW East Ayrshire 07932 101 076

Lydia Newman APW Renfrewshire (Mat Cover) 07786 075 855

Lindsay Cook APW East Renfrewshire 07973 801 709

Evelyn Cairney APW Glasgow 07985 046 739

Ray MacLean Advocacy & Participation Manager South East 07523 512 800

Neil Findlay Development Officer and APW East Lothian 07970 515 440

Alice Knott APW East Lothian 07743 929 615

Fionna Miskelly APW Borders and Harmeny School 07561 291 765

Keira Kerracher APW Edinburgh (PT Tues to Thur) 07522 557 050 Lisa Fleming APW Midlothian 07712 872 078

Want to get in touch? Find out who is in your local area

Our Helpline is open Monday to Friday from 124pm for all Care Experienced people and those who support them. We can support, signpost and offer choice when you feel there is nowhere else to turn.

You can contact the team by phoning 0330 107 7540, emailing help@whocaresscotland.org or by scanning the QR code.

Suite 208/209, The Pentagon Business Centre, 36 - 38 Washington St, Glasgow G3 8AZ

Lindsey Budge East Lothian and Midlothian APW 07561 291 763

In It To Win It

WIN A £25 VOUCHER!

Once you have completed the IN IT TO WIN IT page please submit your answers to us by the 31st of July 2026 to be in the chance for winning a £25 voucher of your choice!

You can do this by giving the page to your Who Cares? Scotland staff member or by asking a grown up to post it to Suite 208/209, The Pentagon Business Centre, 36 - 38 Washington St, Glasgow G3 8AZ or scan this QR code!

Well done to Charlotte who won last edition’s voucher. She chose to spend it at Amazon!

How many people wearing sunglass es can you count in the picture?

Just for Fun!

5

Colour in this page and then cut it out and send us your finished picture! We love seeing your artwork. Ask a grown up to either post it to our address or email us at comms@whocaresscotland.org.

? ?

U O Yk? now? ? ? ?

The hottest temperature ever recorded on Earth was 56.7°C in Death Valley in California in 1913. That is hot enough to fry an egg on the ground.

Did

It’s Summer! Check out some of our favourite weird and wonderful facts that might surprise you...

??

? ? ?

The Summer solstice is the longest day of the year. It usually happens around June 21st and has the most hours of daylight.

?

Spain is the number 1 holiday destination in Summer for British people.

When it is summer in places like United Kingdom, it is winter in Australia because the Earth is tilted the opposite way.

? ? ?

Some of the palest people in the world come from northern European countries like Ireland, Norway and Scotland.

Suncream sales skyrocket here during Summer!

In places near the North Pole like Iceland, the sun can stay up all day and night in summer. This is often called the midnight sun.

Got a weird or wonderful fact of your own? We’d love to hear it!

The more surprising, the better.

In Summer, the earth is actually slightly farther away from the Sun than in winter, but it still feels warmer because of the angle of sunlight.

Crickets and grasshoppers make louder sounds in Summer because warm weather makes their muscles work faster.

?

Scan this QR code or send your fact to comms@whocaresscotland.org and you might see it featured in our next issue!

4

SECTION

Mini Makers Summer Edition Make your own

GLOWING

E N I H S N U S LANTERN for Summer!

Cut the toilet paper roll in half. Cut out the thick yellow strip of paper that will wrap around the toilet paper roll completely.

Tape it into place.

Step 1:

Step 2:

Cut out the sun ray strips below. You will need all 8 strips.

Work with one end of the toilet paper roll at a time. Stick a piece of cellotape onto the end of one sun ray strip and tape it inside the end of the toilet roll. Repeat with all of the yellow strips.

Step 3:

Once you have the four rays in place, add the other orange strips in between them. See the picture at the right.

Step 4:

Now tape the other end of each strip into the opposite side of the toilet roll, just like before. This will create a full circle of glowing sun rays.

Step 5:

Finally, cut out the sun face circle below. Draw a happy face on it, then tape it into one open end of the toilet roll to complete your Sunshine Lantern!

Step 6:

Cut out: • Thick yellow strip (for wrapping the toilet roll) • Thin yellow strips (4 pieces)

3

• Thin orange strips (4 pieces) • Sun face circle

You wil l nee • Sciss d: o • Cello rs ta pe • One toilet pa pe • The paper b r roll elow!

Find out what’s Where is Buddy Page 2

in this issue…

Mini Makers

SECTION

Did you know?

Summer edition

Page 3

Page 4

Where is

Buddy?

Our friendly mascot Buddy the Bear goes to lots of different places, helping us work to improve the lives of Care Experienced people like you. Check out what he’s been up to recently...

Buddy has been working hard in the Who Cares?

Scotland office and whilst he has been helpful, he is also causing lots of mischief!

He helped us set up for our Empowered Voices Programme, where we had many members come in to learn about politics, campaigning and to practise their public speaking skills. There was food leftover and he was caught eating the leftover brownies!

He also loved the last SpeakOut Junior magazine and was reading it to get new ideas and inspiration on what we could do for this one.

He found all the Did you know?

Summer facts so give them a read on page 4.

Our most recent campaign was shortlisted for an award and Buddy came along alongside five of our members. Whilst we didn’t win, we were commended meaning we came second!

Buddy was also very lucky to go away on holiday – all the way to Tenerife! Tenerife is on the coast of Africa and is five hours away from Scotland! He had a great time in the sun and chilling on the beach... but he did end up sunburnt with a t-shirt tan. Ouch!

When he came back from his holiday, he decided to finally get round to his New Year’s resolutions and go to a workout class! He was proud of himself for going and has decided to go back again when he can.

These are all the places Buddy has went in 2026 and Bu ddy is with you too! You can sen d us photos of some fun place s you go with your own Buddy – we would love to see them!

Scan the QR code or em ail the photos to comms@whocaresscotlan d.org

23 2

! r o i n Ju SUMMER 2026

Where is Buddy?

P2

Mini Makers P3

Did You Know?

P4