Speak Out Summer 2017

SpeakOut WHO CARES? SCOTLAND MAGAZINE

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SUMMER 2017

LIFT O F F!

Read about the launch of the history making review of the Scottish Care System attended by the First Minister. P18-19

PLUS!

QUIZ PAGES, SO JUNIOR AND WHAT’S HOT WHAT’S NOT

NEWS & EVENTS CONTENTS

Speak Out Magazine | SUMMER 2017

Welcome to the latest is s t’s Check out wha

inside...

Welcome to the Summer 2017 issue of SpeakOut! First, we’d like to introduce the newest members of our editorial team! Meet Charlie, Kareen, Tia, Carly, Saffron, Callum and Darren. These guys now not only write the articles but they also help decide what each issue will include, how the pages are laid out and most importantly what makes the front cover! This issue includes an update on the 1000 Voices Campaign and an interview with Fiona Duncan, the Chair of the up and coming review of the care system, find out what Hogwarts house Fiona would’ve been in and how she plans to engage with care experienced people during the review. Carly makes us all jealous when she tells us about the event she attended where she brushed shoulders with none other than Barrack Obama, former President of the USA. Callum, Saffron and Tia fill us in on what went down at the latest Care Council Resi and the first ever Alumni Residential. The PlayStation game, Kingdom Hearts falls under Charlie’s tough judgement in What’s Hot What’s Not – will it get his approval? Remember to take part in the In It To Win It quiz to be in with a chance of winning a £20 voucher of your choice.

Inside this issue 2-3

Welcome Pages

Lifestyle...

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Celebrating You

8

My Trip to China

9

Keeping up With Carly

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Meet the Corporate Parents

11

Additional Support Needs Tribunal Service

12

Reflections

News & Events...

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Care Council Update

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The First Alumni Residential

From everyone here, have a fantastic Summer!

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Harvard 2017

Take Care,

16-17 Regional Round Up

The Speak Out! Team xxx

18-19 The Launch 20

Is Care up to Standard

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Yardworks 2017

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The Glasgow Kiltwalk

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Aberdeen City Champions Board

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Young People Influence Change at Parliament

Entertainment...

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25

25

A Postcard from Southeast Asia

26-27 What’s Hot What’s Not 28-29 Quiz Pages

SO Junior...

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8

30-31 SO Junior 32

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Contact Page

sue of SpeakOut

NEWS WELCOME & EVENTS

Speak Out Magazine | SUMMER 2017

Say Hey to your Editorial team…

IE KATITOR ED

SAFFRO

N

ROS IE

TIA

WANT TO SEE YOUR NAME IN PRINT?

We do!

EMILY

We love hearing from you, so please share your poems, stories, pictures, jokes or tell us about something you’ve done. SpeakOut needs you!

So get involved.

CALLUM

@whocaresscot

Who Cares? Scotland Community membership@ whocaresscotland.org

LY CAR

CHARLIE

KAREEN

Want to join next issue’s editorial team?

ie – just get in touch with Kat We’d love to have you, 560 069 16 078 / .org sscotland membership@whocare

JEMMA

If you’d like your own copy of SpeakOut posted to you, then make sure you sign up as a Family Member by visiting www.whocaresscotland.org The views expressed by the young people in this magazine are their own and not necessarily those of Who Cares? Scotland.

W H O CA R E S? S COT LA N D

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CelebratingYou! NEWS & EVENTS LIFESTYLE

Speak Out Magazine | SUMMER 2017

Celebrating you is a space for you guys to tell us what you’ve been gett ing up to and to share anything you proud of. We love getting stuff from might be really you, so please send in your poems, stori es, pictures, jokes or tell us about som favourite hobby or a new pet, and we’ll ething you’ve done, your include it in the next issue of SpeakOu t. memberhip@whocares

scotla

nd.org – 5 Oswald Street, Gla sgow, G1 4QR

n e e r G Fingers Young people and staff at Avonlea Children’s Centre in Wick, have jazzed up their garden grounds to make it look fun, homely and colourful with the use of various recycled items. Aimee, who lives there, says that it makes her home feel unique.

Very imaginative, we take our hats off to everyone at Avonlea!

Bumping in to old mates Hi my name is Rory from the Highlands and I am 16 years old.

I am a member of Who Cares? Scotland.

I attend a group called the Highland Social Group, last month we went to the trampoline park in Inverness. It was a good place to see people you haven’t seen in an while. We all had a good time away from our home environment.

The group is good for young people because it’s a place we can speak out and be listened to, a place where we can forget our troubles and have a really good time with young people and the WC?S staff.

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NEWSLIFESTYLE & EVENTS

Speak Out Magazine | SUMMER 2017

y s Bu Guy Russell, 18

R

ussell is very busy, as not only is he going to college but he regularly helps out at local charities and groups. Here is a wee insight into Russell’s week and what he gets up to: Monday: Russell does voluntary work in a local Ayrshire hospice shop. Here he serves customers at the till, organises and sorts the stock and counts and records the money.

Tuesday: Russell attends college where he does a range of subjects such as computing, cooking, drama and singing. As well as studying he enjoys hanging out with his friends. Russell’s favourite subject is cooking.

Wednesday: Russell volunteers at local youth group Z1 where all young people can meet up, socialise, participate in activities and go on trips. Russell works in the juice bar when he helps out and helps the other young people. There is lots

to do at Z1, there are computers, sports equipment, and cooking to name a few.

Thursday: Russell is back at college and in the evening he helps out at the local cubs. He really likes it as he gets to go away camping and on trips away too.

Friday: its back to college where he is working hard.

Saturday: Russell goes back into the Ayrshire hospice shop to help out and gain new skills.

Sunday: he’s back down at Z1 to have some fun.

Russell really enjoys his jam-packed schedule and thinks one day his volunteering will help him get paid work but at the moment he just loves what he is doing and the way it is… he really is a busy guy!

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NEWS & EVENTS LIFESTYLE

Speak Out Magazine | SUMMER 2017

LOOK ME17 AT Lauren , By

Look at me I have blonde hair I have blue eyes I have a personality I have clean clothes I have good health I have a good job I have people that love me I’m just the same as you, Although I’m in care.

So why do you treat me different?

Why do you judge me if I’m walking Down the street with a staff member And not my mam or dad?

Why do you make me feel bad About where I stay?

What do you get out of laughing And bullying me for being looked after?

Why do you think twice about your little girl of boy Playing with a child in care, In the play park?

Why should I feel ashamed or bad about where I stay Just because you’re telling me to?

Why do you assume children are put into care Because they are difficult or complicated to look after?

Why do you treat me different in school?

Like I did something wrong and I should be suspended.

And you keep me in school because I’m a child in care, Then why do you treat me different?

Why do you think residential or foster care is a bad thing?

We’re just the same as you.

We still have feelings, We are still people, We still get upset by your judgement and comments, We still want to be loved, properly.

And most of all, We want our voice to be heard.

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for 5K Kindness K

Shane 14, Demi 17, Kye 16

ye had an idea to do a sponsored run for charity. Two staff members Tracy and John suggested the charity, The Kindness Project.

The Kindness Project is a homeless project based in Glasgow. Tracey explained “John and I were trying to change the young people’s negative views towards homelessness. This is something John and I are continuing to work on with the young people”.

Shane explained why he wanted to support this charity. “Knowing that you’re helping out folk. Most folk in

care end up homeless”.

The young people completed a 5km run to raise money for the charity.

Kye said “the run was good, I’d like to do something like it again”. Together they have raised approximately £200. With this money, they will buy toiletries, food, blankets and other items for people and their pets who experience homelessness. Well done to everyone on the team. You have shown that “no act of kindness, however small, is ever wasted”.

NEWSLIFESTYLE & EVENTS

Speak Out Magazine | SUMMER 2017

Falkirk Champion Elected as MSYP L

iam Slaven (17) of Falkirk’s Champions Board has been elected as a Member of Scottish Youth Parliament for the Falkirk West constituency.

Liam received the good news on Monday 20th of March after weeks of hard work campaigning in local schools and youth clubs.

Liam has had an interest in local and world affairs from a young age, having always watched the news and has wanted for a long time to have his say in issues affecting young

politics and this could he that start of a career.”

The most important issues for Liam that affect the youth of today are health and wellbeing, education and employment, and the economy.

Liam’s passion for politics and youth justice is evident from his commitment Falkirk’s Champions Board.

The Champions Board is a platform for care experienced young people to come together to discuss issues within the care system. The young people in

people.

Liam says “I’m very excited to have been elected to the youth parliament”, which starts in June, “I’ve always wanted to be involved in

the Champions Board then work with their Corporate Parents and elected members of Falkirk Council to improve local services.

Liam is also a part of a research group of looking at barriers for care experienced young people accessing modern apprenticeships and employment. And to top it all off he is also working towards his Duke of Edinburgh Award.

From everyone here at SpeakOut – “Well done Liam!”

Ariana Grande Zara 11

Arianne, 13 I decided to draw Brooke from the YPPG. I thought it would be fun to try something different, as I don’t usually do realistic drawing.

I am happy the way it turned out & I decided to give it to Brooke.

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NEWS & EVENTS

Speak Out Magazine | SUMMER 2017

China My Trip to

sador Tia Mure, WC?S Ambas

D

uring the summer of 2016, I embarked on a journey that would change my perspective on the world. This journey took me to China, more specifically the cities of Tianjin and Beijing. On the way to the airport I was so nervous because I was about to travel 6330 miles around the world to live with complete strangers.

Luckily I made some friends from my local authority at the airport and then the 23 hour journey began. I have never been so worried and excited at the same time.

I had no idea what to expect or how to prepare but I decided to take each day as it came.

While I was in Tianjin I was living the life of a student. I studied at the University and stayed in student accommodation with 120 other young people from all over Scotland. This experience opened my eyes to the possibilities and opportunities that are available to me. On our first day of university the jet lag made it nearly impossible to get to college before 9 o’clock, thankfully that wore off in couple of days. Whilst at university we learnt about the languages and culture of China. I discovered that I loved learning Manderin and even now I still try to practice it. My Chinese name is Xìn yâ, which translates to fresh and elegant.

During my stay I got to visit a school in the local community and visit a family in their home. The family prepared food for us and we exchanged gifts. I asked loads of questions, took lots of photos and I even tried to teach the family some ceilidh dances. Dinner was dumplings as it was a celebration of the Chinese New Year and this was a tradition. We helped to make these with the 8

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pinch and twist method, despite the Grandpas best efforts to teach me I wasn’t very good at it but it was fun to try and work his instructions which were all in Chinese!

For our final week, we stayed in a hotel in Beijing. Being in a hotel meant we had the chance to eat some comfort food that we had missed like toast, sausages, cake and biscuits but we still ordered noodles for breakfast, a tradition we had all grown to enjoy. Breakfast was seen as an extremely important meal and we were told that we wouldn’t be allowed to go to the Summer Palace or climb the Great Wall if we didn’t eat our breakfast as the trips could endanger our health!

Climbing part of the Great Wall of China was my favourite experience. It was a back breaking climb, in 40 degree heat, up the steepest part of the wall but the view at the top was worth it.

The thought of going to China had terrified me, because it was so far away and for so long, but once I got there I had such an amazing time and I found that it was a place I could just be me, without any labels.

Carly

Speak Out Magazine | SUMMER 2017

Keeping up with O

n the 26th of May 2017, former US president Barack Obama made his first visit to Scotland where he attended a charity dinner hosted

by The Hunter Foundation. The purpose of his visit was to raise money for children’s charities in Scotland and the Obama Foundation. I’m very proud to say that, after working hard to earn my place, I was chosen as one of only a handful of young people at the event, an incredible opportunity made possible by the William Grant Foundation.

I was so excited the day of the dinner. I am from an impoverished part of Glasgow, and had never experienced the grandeur of an event like this. I found myself flapping over dress code and etiquette. However, Fiona Duncan – the chair of the care review – helped me feel less anxious and went out of her way to see me at the event. The representatives from the William Grant Foundation were also really supportive.

Obama started off his speech by offering his condolences to the United Kingdom after the terror attack in Manchester in which twenty-two people died and over one hundred were injured. He made the observation that we live in a time of great disruption. Obama said in his address that there is a better way to reach across divides. We should work together to make the country a more safe, secure and prosperous place for everyone. Replace fear with hope.

Stand up for a vision of inclusiveness.

After Obama’s address I was completely moved. I felt a real drive to research all of the presented issues and to follow through with his asks. I was so immersed in my own thoughts that I forgot we had entertainment to follow until Annie Lennox from 80s group The Eurhythmics came on stage as well as Scottish rock band Texas. I’m a major fan of Annie and had a ball

NEWS & EVENTS

Carly Telford, Corporate Parenting Ambassador

listening to her perform. As well as music, Kevin Bridges performed! He was hilarious and I was smiling the whole time.

The night eventually ended and my feet had gotten quite sore in the heels I was wearing. I tripped up and banged into a woman in a blue dress. I was embarrassed and shocked to see that I had fallen into JK Rowling! I didn’t know how to react and apologised and smiled at her.

Thankfully she was gracious about it.

Everything about the event was excellent, but most of all, I left feeling empowered to take on big challenges and to do my part in helping charities like Who Cares? Scotland to make profound change for those in care. President Obama has given me hope that even the most difficult change is possible. Obama advocated for America to embrace diversity and acceptance. He stood up for what he believed in despite the odds being against him and this set the tone for his term as president. Like Obama I want to live in a society that is bold and diverse, and where I can be proud of who I am. I am immensely proud that I experienced this both for myself and on behalf of all care experienced young people in Scotland.

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Meetthe Parents NEWS & EVENTS

Speak Out Magazine | SUMMER 2017

(Corporate)

Shirley-Anne Somerville is the Minister for Furth er Education, Higher Educati on and Science. Carly, Callu m and Natasha met with Shirley to discuss their experiences of education and the introduction of a non-repayable bursary of £7,625 which will be available to all care experienced students attending college and university from 2017.

CARLY: The bursary is fantastic, and will really make a substantial financial difference to the lives of people in care, and care leavers, who want to succeed academically but may not have the money to afford typical student stuff like rent, bills, books and travel. I will be starting an HND qualification in Legal Services this September. As someone who is just beginning their journey into further education, I will leave college and university with no student debt which is a huge relief. This bursary offers support to care experienced people who desperately need it, and helps them to prepare for adult life.

NATASHA: I asked the Minister to reconsider the entry requirements for care experienced young people when they’re applying to college and university. This would mean a lot to me as when I was growing up the various difficult situations I faced meant that I didn’t try hard at school and didn’t do as well as I’d hoped.

When I first applied for a university course, I didn’t get in, even though my low grades weren’t my fault.

After meeting the Minister and finding out more about the bursary, Callum and I worked with SAAS to hold an event designed to support care experienced young people to better understand the new application process and get help from staff at SAAS. The event also allowed for SAAS to receive feedback from the young people on how they felt the application process went and what could be improved. The event was successful with a great turn out and I’d 10

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really like to see it happen again next year.

CALLUM: The FE/HE Minister was very open to finding out more about our experiences and it was evident that she cared about the lives of so many care experienced young people including myself. I told the Minister that growing up in care, I always felt uncertain about my future, especially when considering where I’m going to live. Now, after graduating from university with an honours degree, I have the same concerns. I have never been given a straight answer as to a time when my rent will stop being supported but I do know that it will be when I finish university. However, finding a graduate job, or a job in general can be a lengthy process and

I don’t have a safety net like my peers do, who can stay with their parents until they find their feet.

In the meeting, we also talked about the bursary. Care experienced students will now leave college and university with no debt, whereas I am leaving with considerable debt from the loans I have been forced to take out, despite working part-time throughout my studies. I am glad that it is being recognised that care experienced young people are at a real disadvantage when it comes to education. However, I find my current circumstances frustrating and want to know if they are going to back date the financial support to help those like me, who have overcome the odds and completed a university degree already.

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NEWS & EVENTS

Speak Out Magazine | SUMMER 2017

O H W T A H W Y H W

Additional Support Needs Tribunals for Scotland What does Additional Support Needs Tribunals for Scotland do?

The Additional Support Needs Tribunals for Scotland (ASNTS) deals with appeals involving children or young people who have additional support needs in school education.

There are two types of appeal: Reference (which deals with coordinated support plans, transitions and placing requests) Claim (which deals with disability discrimination in education).

When does someone have additional support needs?

The law says that a child or a young person has additional support needs when they need to be given additional support to do well in their school education. This could include someone who is: • Looked after by a local authority, • Being bullied, • Having problems at home, • Has learning difficulties, • Has a disability.

Care experienced children and young people have rights in relation to the ASNTS. If your school or local council are not giving you enough support to help you to benefit from your school education you can make a reference to the ASNTS. At the moment, only young people aged 1617 years can do this. However, from November you will be able to do this when you are 12 years or older.

If you have a disability and you think your school or your Council is discriminating against you because of this, you can make a claim.

Your parent or a corporate parent can also make a reference or a claim to the ASNTS.

Your voice matters!

A tribunal hearing will be arranged to consider the reference or claim. It is really important that your voice is not lost when this happens. The President, May Dunsmuir, of the ASNTS wants to make sure that the voice of care experienced children is heard, loud and clear.

COMPETITION!

May has invited SpeakOut to run a competition to design the front cover of her Annual Report, with the theme of “listen to me”. This is a chance for you to show what is important when it comes to your voice being heard.

To be in with the chance of winning a gift card please send in your artwork to Who Cares? Scotland. The closing date is 31st July 2017.

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NEWS & EVENTS

Speak Out Magazine | SUMMER 2017

Reflections Jeanette, 19

M

y experience of being involved with Who Cares? Scotland and how it has helped me.

I got involved with Who Cares?

Scotland in 2011 when I moved to Leven. In 2011 my WC?S worker was called Steve Griffin. Steve made regular visits to my unit to speak to the young people about issues that they had and he would sometimes come for tea to spend time getting to know the young people. I occasionally spoke to Steve about issues that I didn’t think that I could speak to staff about, a lot of these issues were about family contact. Steve would also speak to me before any important meetings I had and at the meetings Steve and my keyworkers would help me to put opinions across to my social worker and other professionals at the meetings.

My WC?S worker now is Robyn Dearden. When I first met Robyn I didn’t want to speak to her but eventually I managed to introduce myself. Robyn now attends my important meetings and helps me to speak up. She also got me involved with the 2B Heard Group in Cupar and helped me sign up as a member of the WC?S Family. Robyn worked with my social worker and keyworker to help me look at options for my transition in

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to independent living accommodation.

The two options I had were supported lodgings or Shared Lives. I went with Shared Lives because that suits my needs better. On my first visit to my new home, it was Robyn who I wanted to come with me, she helped me feel ok about the changes ahead. When the day finally came to leave my unit it was really hard because that had been my home for 4 ½ years, but with support from my old workers I was able to move on and my Shared Lives home has been amazing so far.

I love being a part of the Who Cares?

Scotland Family, it’s full of caring and loving people, from staff to the other care experienced young people I’ve become friends with. My experience of WC?S has been very rewarding, I feel cared for and respected by so much people that care and respect everyone and the feeling that there is always someone there if you ever need to talk to them or are feeling down.

Who Cares? Scotland have helped me get a better understanding of what a positive relationship is, this has helped me engage with people

and gain new friends. My role as camp leader at last year’s summer camp helped me develop as a positive role model to younger young people and I liked helping them have fun. I have helped recruit staff who will work with young people in Fife. Y opinion mattered. But most importantly, by working with WC?S and using my own experience I am campaigning to improve the care system for future generations of Care Experienced young people.

Care Council Update NEWS & EVENTS

Speak Out Magazine | SUMMER 2017

I

Saffron Rohan , Participation Assistant

went to my first Care Council gathering at the end of April. I didn’t really know what to expect but I’d heard good things so was excited to get to know everyone. Care councillors from all over Scotland gathered together to talk about some important issues and topics, share ideas and just as importantly, have some fun.

The weekend kicked off with some introductions and welcoming new faces, followed by some warm up games to liven everyone up. It was great to see how happy everyone was to see each other and by the end of the weekend it was becoming apparent why.

There was a range of activity’s over the course of the weekend, including input from Helen and Ryan, who are elected members of the Scottish Youth Parliament. They ran a workshop designed to gather Care Councillors views on some of the topics they had pledged to work

on in their manifestos.

The pair did a fantastic job of getting the Care Councillors to discuss some of the issues and gathered evidence to take back to the Scottish Youth Parliament; where they make sure the care experienced voice is strongly represented.

Other key work that took place was around the Care Review. Our very own Carly Edgar, 1000 Voices Campaign Manager, went over some of what was going to happen in the review and talked a little about the 1000 voices campaign. Councillors got the opportunity to work on creating timelines of their own experiences and learnt about different creative ways to gather the views and experiences of care experienced young people in their various local authorities.

As well as all the important work the councillors and staff had lots of opportunities to relax, socialise and have

fun. The highlight of the weekend for me has got to be the campfire. As well as toasting marshmallows, it was a time for people to show off their amazing talents. We had a mixture of poetry, drama, singing and just having a laugh together.

By the end of the weekend there wasn’t a person I didn’t know and you would never have known that some of new councillors hadn’t been part of the group before. I realised that the Care Council gathering was more than just a place where councillors met to discuss important issues

and share information. It was a place where people came together, as a family, worked to support each other, and a place where everyone felt happy to be themselves.

Before everyone left at the end of the weekend there was some time for the group to reflect and it was great to hear that others who were there for the first time, like me, felt welcomed, included, and had left with a whole lot of new friends. It was my first time attending but it certainly won’t be my last!

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NEWS & EVENTS

Speak Out Magazine | SUMMER 2017

The First Alumni Residential T

he Alumni residential in March, saw a small group of care experienced adults (Alumni Members), come together for the very first time to consider their own care identity and explore different themes of care experience. It was an opportunity for many of them to bond with other care experienced people, some of whom hadn’t known anyone from care since they left. It turned out many of these people had lived through similar experiences to myself, and it’s this that makes the Alumni relevant; they’ve been there, they’ve done it and they’ve got the t-shirt so to speak.

On arrival, there was a general feeling of anxiety as there often is with ‘firsts’ of anything. It soon became clear that for many of the Alumni members, this would be the first time in years that they would openly discuss and reflect upon their care experience. Reflecting on your care experience can be a very emotional experience, however, in the right setting and with the right support it can be incredibly empowering. As a member of staff I was there to support the process of the residential, but as someone who’s just left the care system I found myself sharing my own experiences along

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with the Alumni members. It’s strange how quickly a group of strangers can bond over difficult childhoods! After these conversations, I personally felt empowered, with a greater sense of confidence in who I was and in what my future could be. The raw emotion felt by the whole group as we shared our stories, left us feeling passionate and determined that future young people should have a much more comfortable, loving and nurturing experience, in a care system that supports them to reach their potential.

The majority of the residential was spent getting to know one another, which we did whilst walking through the beautiful surrounding country side; through discussion of some of the main themes of care, like identity and education and generally just being in each other’s company for 2 days.

The conclusion of this weekend of reflection and bonding, was to discuss the 1000 voices campaign, and how the Alumni might want to be part of this. They were asked to consider what care should look like in 2020, their responses will be considered by Who Cares? Scotland in terms of what we would expect from the forthcoming care review and used as a starting point for the next Alumni residential,

Who Cares? Scotland Ambassador and SpeakOut editorial team member, Callum Lynch, talks us through the first ever Alumni residential and what the Alumni mean to his generation of care experienced young people. where we will hopefully get to meet more of the 155 members.

Before we headed home, I spoke to an Alumni member who described her sense of achievement in having shared her care experience with the group and how privileged she felt to have been entrusted with the stories of others. I too had found it a truly humbling.

For me the Alumni’s commitment to making care better for future generations is commendable, but obviously change takes time, so at the end of the weekend, what I took away with me was a feeling of reassurance, that if they could do it then so could I, and that I suppose, is one of the greatest gifts the Alumni have to give.

To join the Who Cares? Scotland Family as Alumni Member visit whocaresscotland.org.

NEWS & EVENTS

Speak Out Magazine | SUMMER 2017

HARVARD

2017

SpeakOut caught up with Elina & Rashida just before they headed off to spend 7 weeks studying at the Harvard University Summer School, funded by Who Cares? Scotland. Read the interview below!

Can you tell us a bit about yourself?

E: My name is Elina and I’m 17 years old. I currently living in Dunoon under a continued care placement.

R: My name is Rashida and I’m 18 years old, however, due to my aggravating height of 4ft11” I permanently look twelve. I currently live in Larkhall with my foster carers. There are seven of usif you include the Dog too. My sister and I have been here for 5 years going on 6 and couldn’t be happier to be honest.

Why did you decide to apply for the Harvard summer school programme?

E: I initially applied for the Harvard summer school programme because it is an amazing opportunity for anyone my age and I wished to gain experience living on my own to prepare myself for future life while studying at university. I want to work towards breaking down the stigma of low expectations of children in care, inspiring other care experienced young people that they can achieve great things. This is very personal to me as I would love to be the person to encourage my younger brother and others to do well in life.

R: I first heard about the Harvard Summer School in 2015 from my

Social Worker. I wasn’t successful the first time round. But I’m a resilient person, so I applied again. In all honesty, the wow factor of Harvard wasn’t a huge factor in the decision. I did it partly because I don’t totally feel ready for University. It’s a big step academically and although I know that I will enjoy it I feel as though the Harvard opportunity will help me prepare for my first year at University.

What subjects will you be studying at Harvard?

E: The Architecture of Boston, and the Psychology based course on Sensation and Perception.

R: English Literature & Writing and French.

What do you hope to gain from the experience?

E: I wish to become more independent living on my own, and I would like to learn about other cultures as the diversity will be very broad, allowing me to meet new people with very different life experiences.

R: Not only am I hoping that it will improve my skills, I also hope it will open doors for friendships that I otherwise wouldn’t have the chance to form if I stay cooped up in my room all summer.

Elina

Rashina

What are you most looking forward to about attending Harvard University?

E: I am not certain what I am most looking forward to as there are so many wonderful things which this experience will have to offer. I am excited to meet new people and to explore the surrounding area, as I have never visited the States before!

R: I’m most looking forward to the challenge I think, I know it will be hard, but all the good things in life seem to be at some point or another, right?

Good luck Elina & Rashida – we can’t wait to hear all about your time at Harvard when you return!

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Kibble Group ) (every 2 weeks welcome. rs Darren.

New membe lie, Pamela or El t ac nt co fo For more in

Shetla nd Sian is o about ut and in She tland, bringin g togeth young folk er trips to , enjoying t and ca he cinema tching up For mo re info . contac t Sian.

Fun Young Individuals (Perth, every Monday) The Perth group is a vib rant bunch of young pe ople who meet weekly on a Monday nig ht. You will always be gre eted with a home cooked meal, fol lowed by fun activities, ch ats and laughter.

For more info contact Le ah or Heather.

Transition Group take place weekly A new group has started that will This group is for young throughout the summer holidays. ing onto Secondary people who are anxious about mov involved in lots of fun School. The young people will be secondary school so they activities, trips out and visits to the r before starting S1. othe have a chance to get to know each For more info contact Alison.

Highland Frequent gro up get-toge the out and abo ut and the ch rs, lots of pizza, trips ance to con to the High tribute land Champ ions Board – changing Ca already re in Highla nd for the b also startin etter. We’re g up groups in Fort Willi Caithness a am, Skye an nd are look d ing at develo school cham ping a local pions board in Mid-Ross For more in . fo contact D onna.

Moray Moray welc omes its ne west WC?S Prendergast Developme . The Moray nt Officer in group can b different act Lesley e found out ivities from on the road cl im meetings at b in g trying to bowling wit Elgin Youth h regular m Café. Moray Champions o nthly have officia Board on an lly launched d will be wo in October a th eir rking toward nd planning s the next e a residentia For more in vent l for Decem fo contact Le ber. sley P.

Western Isles The Young Islanders, a group supported by Young Scot, gives 1115 year olds the chance to meet up and look at the issues that living on an island brings.

There is another group especially for care experienced young people, aged between 14-18 years old.

For more info contact Alison.

l a n o i g e R p U d n u Ro

Tayside Care 2Create For more in fo contact Le ah or Brooke .

s Board/YPPG Dundee Champion ly) (Dundee, fortnight Cindy or Leah.

For more info call

Transformers gr oup (Angus, fortnigh tly) For more info co ntact Mel or Le ah.

Aberdeenshire Regular YPOC and LAC Factor gatherings with fun activity, film making, campaigning and a growing voice in the Champions Board.

For more info contact Lynne W.

Aberdeen C ity Summer Programme Fill up your summer wit h FUN activities, in cluding a 5 day retreat to Cromdale . Spaces are limited.

For more in fo contact L aura Bailey.

ACE (Aberdeen City, fortnightly) Get together for fun, food and to make new friends at our regular Aberdeen City group.

For more info contact Laura Bailey.

Aberdeen C hampions B oard (Every 2 – 3 months) Young peop le and their corporate p going to be arents are getting toge ther again to some amazi make ng, positive change in A For more in berdeen! fo, contact L aura Bailey.

NEWS & EVENTS Speak Out Magazine | SUMMER 2017

up Inverclyde Gro Wednesday) y er ev , (Gourock lyde care in Inverc Help us make entirely This group is PHENOMENAL! verclyde. g people of In led by the youn ake you’d like to m Come along if s of fun gage in all kind friends and en g activities. and interestin contact Nicole.

For more info

Care2Create: G lasgow (10-15 year ol ds, fortnightly) Whether you’re into learning a creative skill or just wan t to try somethi ng fun and new, Care2Cre ate is for you!

We’ll keep you well fed w ith excellent fo od too.

For more info contact Euan G.

Our new Care Leavers Group in Paisley is for all you amazing folk that are about to leave care or have already done so. Come together, get a munch, a blether, share changes! experiences and let’s make some real .

Julie For more info contact

Renfrewshire Champions Board meets fortnightly on Mondays and welcomes young people from all types of care to take part in all sor t of activities, meet new people and get a chance to be real champions and make care in Renfrewshire better!

For more info contact Donal d.

Care2Create : Ayrshire (6-10 year olds) WC?S’s you ngest grou p have bee all sorts of n up to fun and cre ative activit For more in ies! fo contact Jemma.

s Young Radical nightly) rt Fo , ow (Glasg le from ced young peop Care experien to t ee l Scotland m ange all over centra ch al re and shape ld. think critically or w er em and wid in the care syst . on ti hts. Unity. Ac Solidarity. Rig G. contact Euan For more info

The Diamonds group in Paisley is where our delightful under 10s who are in Kinship care or looked after at home come to enjoy arts and crafts, play games and meet others like them.

Your grown-ups can come alo ng too to chat while you have fun!

For more info contact Julie.

The Breakthrough Group is for fabulous folk in Foster care – help produce a regular newsletter for in Renfrewshire young people who live , zles puz ing foster care. If you fancy mak ing, draw , writing stories, doing reviews h. meeting new people then get in touc For more info contact Donald.

2BHeard eekly) (Across Fife, w e groups There are thre ss Fife, who meet acro ppening ha loads of stuff find out. d come along an ll Robyn. ca For more info

FAMILY group (Mussleburgh, every Tuesday) This group creates an atmosphere where young people feel accepted and a space where they belong. They also feed their discussions into the East Lothian Champions Board.

For more info contact Lisa, Alicia or Sophie.

East Lothian Champions Board (Musselburgh, every Thursday) If you’d like to join, contact Beth A.

Midlothian Champions Board (Dalkeith, e very secon d Monday) For more in fo, call Jord an.

YPiCC ery second (Edinburgh, ev Thursday) at tackles A fun group th le hi local issues w g providing youn ce to people a chan ips. sh build relation oup and unched this gr la re st ju ve ha We rs! r new membe . are looking fo -Ann or Ellie B ey sl contact Le fo in e or m r Fo

ons Board Falkirk Champi ) velopment (every 2 weeks ntly held a de ce re rd oa B s go, all The Champion gning their lo si de d te ar st been on day where they urs. They have lo co e th ck pi Trust! that’s left is to e Ocean Youth th h it w ip tr g rgery in a team buildin Leaving Care Su ly th on m a and there We also have ing Care Team av Le e th h it k long partnership w i Champs wee in M a r fo e ac group. are plans in pl on of a weekly ti uc od tr in e activity and th call Ray. For more info

South Lanarkshire South Lanarkshire have two groups running at present, the long -standing Foster Care group and the newly form ed Care Leavers Gr oup. Both group are always welcoming new m embers.

For more info, cont act Ewan or Lynn e M.

Speak Out Magazine | SUMMER 2017

NEWS & EVENTS

W H O CA R E S? S COT LA N D

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The Launch of the Care Review T

he 30th of May saw the launch of the independent Care Review, as the members who have been appointed to support the Chair, Fiona Duncan, were revealed.

The Care Review group will look at law, practice, and the culture of the care system across Scotland. They will listen to people with experience of care, their families, providers of care and particularly, children and young people in care now, make recommendations to improve the care system and ultimately the quality of life and outcomes for all young people in care. The First Minister, Nicola Sturgeon, was at the event and said, “Every young person should have an equal opportunity to succeed in life, no matter their circumstances…I’m

delighted to be helping to launch the care review at tonight’s event alongside Fiona Duncan, and crucially so many people who have experienced care.”

To mark the occasion, Who Cares?

Scotland Member, Helen Johnston, recited this poem which she had written specially.

1000 Voices There’s power in our voices, Potential in our choices A system based on statistics Rules and dead old logistics.

The power to shape a system Based on love.

A system that helps us climb higher, Over and above.

A place that we’ve to grow in, A place we’ve got to call home A system that built on regulations Stigmatised, we often feel alone.

A system built on trust Happiness, protection A system that is not scared To show us love and affection.

This is our time, Together we unite A thousand voices In plain sight.

A system that claims us, That sees the potential in us too A system that will support us In all that we do.

We have the opportunity To come together as one, To raise our voices To shape what must be done.

So raise your voice with us, In this root and branch review Speakout, unite Help us shape our review.

What system is it we need?

What is it that makes a home?

What can the professionals do To help those of us who roam?

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on , 18 Helen John st

NEWS & EVENTS

Speak Out Magazine | SUMMER 2017

I

n the week following the launch, the SpeakOut editorial team pulled together some questions for Fiona Duncan, the Chair, in order to get to know her better and to really understand the point of the Care Review and her role in it. Here’s what she had to say:

Q: What Hogwarts House would you be in?

We will do our best to engage in any way that children and young people want to. So please get in touch and let us know what you’d prefer.

A: I am so ancient that Harry Potter hadn’t been born when I was wee so I missed out on reading the books. But I did read Enid Blyton’s books about adventurers (Famous Five) detectives (Secret Seven) and boarding schools (Malory Towers and St Clare’s). What sticks in my mind about the schools is midnight feasts. If I’m awake in the middle of the night, I think there is nothing better than a snack.

Fiona Duncan, Chair of the Review

Q: What does the review mean to you?

Q: Where did you grow up?

A: It means SO much. It means that I will work with you to make Scotland the best place in the world to grow up. It means keeping the promise that the First Minister made to you. It means creating the best care system in the world. I truly believe that we have a real chance to do this.

A: Mainly Bathgate then Rothesay then Cumbernauld.

Q: What exactly does a Chair do?

A: My job is to make sure that the Review delivers.

And that at the end Scotland will have the best care system in the world.

Q: Marmite – love it or hate it?

This will mean asking the right questions of the right people (you!) and listening really hard to the answers.

It will also mean looking in all the right places for information that will tell us what’s working and what’s not - and why. And making sure that we use everything that we have learned to properly understand what needs to change in the system - then to make that change happen.

A: Love it. Hot buttered toast with marmite then peanut butter (has to be crunchy) on top - delicious.

Q: What happens after the discovery phase of the review?

A: The Discovery Group will have identified a list of changes that can happen quickly - so work will start straightaway to make sure that happens. The Discovery Group will also have a list of things that need more thought and time so they will ask a new group of experts to come together to consider how to fix these.

Q: How did you get to be the Chair of the Review?

A: I was asked and it is the most important thing that I have ever been asked to do in my life!

Q: How are you going to engage with care experienced children and young people?

Q: You’re going to be investigating the care system – which detective are you most inspired by?

A: By going to where children and young people are, and spending time so that we can get to know each other. By asking children and young people if they would talk to me about their experiences and the things that matter to them.

A: This is such a tough question!

Most of the ones I am inspired by are so determined that they often break the rules to get results. I am not sure Luther and Rebus are good role models!

The Review is also looking at other ways to engage with children and young people, like through social media, on the phone, by email and post and by working with organisations like Who Cares? Scotland and other organisations who want to help the Review.

you can sign If you’d like to get involved in the Review volve-me/ and up here: https://www.carereview.scot/in experiences in a if you’d like to share your thoughts and @carereview.scot. confidential way you can email talk2us onacarereview.

Also, I’m on Twitter, you can follow me @fi

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Speak Out Magazine | SUMMER 2017

Is Care Up to

Standard?

Charlie McFarlane, WC?S Policy Ass istant

I’m the newest member of the policy team at Who Cares? Scotland.

That means that I get to help care experienced young people have a say in the policy that impacts their lives.

I know how isolating it is not to understand your rights. I also know how much it means to have my opinions taken seriously. Getting the chance to let other young people be heard is what motivates me.

We asked 76 young people to tell us what they thought of the National Health and Social Care Standards.

These are the guidelines that tell everyone what they can expect when they access health and social care services in Scotland.

It was rewarding to help shape the one on one advocacy, and group sessions where young people shared their views. We deserve the platform to speak, and we know what to do when we’re given it. We’re the experts and we should be part of any decision that is made about us.

The standards got lots of positive feedback. Mostly because they are so empowering. The young people discussed how it meant that they had something they could use on their own, to check that how they were being treated was okay.

That’s not to say they thought the standards were perfect. Some things

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that were raised by the young people really stuck with me because I related to them so much.

One young person said: “I hate it when you’re in the same room as a couple of staff and they start whispering to each other, probably about me”.

My social worker wouldn’t brief me before Children’s Hearings. She never asked me what I wanted. I would sit and stare at the table while she discussed me with the panel. If I had felt comfortable with her I could have shared that I felt conflicted between what my parents wanted and what I wanted. I never got the chance to do that so my care experience wasn’t what I needed. Everything that was decided about me was done behind my back. At no point, should a young person feel excluded, especially when it’s about issues that will affect their current situation and their future.

“People I work with need to get to know me on a deeper, more personal level and not just from paperwork that they read on me, or them being able to say they have ‘known’ me all my life. If you don’t take the time to get to know

me, then you don’t know me. I am not a pile of paper.”

“I think this takes away from your dignity, knowing that everyone around you reads and knows everything about your life without you giving permission” People should show compassion when it comes to personal information. They need to think about how they would feel if their life was written by someone else then shared around. It should always be the case that a staff member gets to know the person first and refers to their file after. If people delivering care want to build trust, that must be the way. I want people to learn about who I am from me.

I’m hopeful that we will have influenced the standards. There’s things that, if you haven’t lived in the system, you just won’t consider.

That’s why we needed to do this. Care experienced people have so much to contribute to the care system. We know where things need to change and we’re doing this because we want to guarantee the brightest possible futures for other young people in care.

NEWS & EVENTS

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– a graffiti exhibition with a twist

Oisin 13, Christopher 14, Jennifer 15 and Megan 14 We arrived at Glasgow venue SWG3 for the 2nd day of Yardworks, where the artists were creating their work to a live audience. Gaz Mac, Manager at SWG3 as well as renowned graffiti artist, is the brains behind Yardworks. The event also included DJ’s, breakdancing and skateboarding exhibitions.

Chaz B, the man behind the breakdance exhibition battle gave us an insight into how he became involved in breakdancing and Yardworks.

Chaz B was interviewed by Oisin How did you get into breakdancing?

Chaz B: I went along to a breakdance class one night and was hooked. I had a stutter which hampered my communication and I had very little confidence. As I got better at breakdancing my confidence grew and I slowly overcame my stutter.

Do you put on other events?

Chaz B: I put on events under the name Resurgence Scotland.

My next event is Resurgence 3, 1 vs 1 Breaking Battle on the 2nd July in Glasgow. My events adopt the essence of Hip Hop culture in that they are fully inclusive events and everyone is welcome. I hope they feel that by attending they are made to feel a big part of the day.

Each of us wanted to share with you what we enjoyed most about the day.

“I enjoyed taking most of the pictures.

The art was really good and there were many different styles all in one place. The breakdancing was cool. I enjoyed listening to Chaz B talk about his experiences as a teenager which he overcame to become the confident young man he is today”. Jennifer

“I really enjoyed seeing the artist’s work, but for me the highlight was the Red Bull car that was also the DJ booth. The breakdancing was really cool. I like the guy called T-POP from Dundee. He was funny as well as being a great boy”. Christopher “I enjoyed seeing all the graffiti and the breakdancing. I enjoyed getting the opportunity to speak with Chaz B about how he became involved in the event”. Oisin

“I had a good time at Yardworks.

This was a completely new experience for me and I would like to see more events like this”. Megan

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W O G S A L G E TH Darren Devers, WC?S Ambassador Not long after taking up the role of Ambassador (Fundraising & Partnership) I was asked to help project manage our first Kiltwalk at Who Cares? Scotland. I had never done anything like this before so I rose to the challenge and set out my goals and targets.

The first thing on my to do list was to find people willing to walk for us. These people would then be responsible for finding other people to sponsor them, thereby raising money to support our work - which I like to say is “re-inventing the rules to make care better for care experienced young people”. On the back of the Christmas appeal CELCIS hosted a thank you night at Glasgow University. This was attended by our amazing supporters, we used this opportunity to announce that we were doing the Kiltwalk and had a great response with 20 people signing up on the night.

Inspired by this I took the decision to also walk for Who Cares? Scotland, I felt I couldn’t ask anyone to do the walk if I wasn’t prepared to do it myself. We then made a short film showing me walking part of the route whilst talking about my care journey and asking people to join me. We asked our Corporate parents to walk with us. South Lanarkshire College, West College Scotland, SQA and the Robertson trust showed real commitment. The final number of people signed up was just over 85.

On the day of the Glasgow Kiltwalk, with the sun scorching the sky, I rallied round the starting points handing out WC?S T-shirts for walkers to wear as they completed the walk before starting my own walk from Baloch. There was thousands of people doing the Kiltwalk and the atmosphere was amazing. Tom Ellis, an actor who has appeared in Eastenders, Miranda and Lucifer, had signed up to walk with me, and he brought along his daughter Flo. We were given special treatment and taken to the front of starting line where we warmed up before setting

off. We took our time and enjoyed the scenery. Tom had this to say about the walk: “Coming back to Scotland reminded me how much I love the place and I especially love the people. Taking part in the Kiltwalk to raise money for Who Cares? Scotland was a special day. I met some incredibly inspiring people who reminded me how powerful the human spirit can be and how freeing it can be to wear a kilt!”

Crossing the finish line had to be the best feeling ever. All walkers were awarded with a medal and a celebratory party. I would highly recommend the walk to anyone, I know I’ll definitely be doing it again next year!”

Missed the Glasgow walk but keen to take part?

Dundee 20th of August 2017 • Edinburgh 17th September Contact ddevers@whocaresscotland.org 22

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NEWS & EVENTS

Speak Out Magazine | SUMMER 2017

Aberdeen City d r a o B s n o i p Cham CROMDALE

To build our participation in Aberdeen we had our first annual residential. This was great where we did various activities such as abseiling, canoeing and gorge walking.

During the week we looked at our values and wha t we would value in our ‘corporate parents’

MARCH S N O I P M A CH BOARmDeeting of

r first n During ou t Educatio a h t d e d i c e r 2017 we d issue . Ou y e k st r fi was our ds are c or a o b s n o i n and champ ung perso o y a y b arch chaired For our M . n o i p and a cham Jasmine as w s i h t VO. one burn , AC p e H e i g g Ma

ACE Group From our Cromdale residential, we the put our thinking caps on about what really mattered to us. This allowed us to identify our main priorities for the Champion s Board.

RELAUNCH In November w e celebrated the re launched of our champion s boar d w ith a bowling trip.

The young peop le dec ided what they key issues were for them in th e care sy stem . These are issues we w il l bring to our board in 2017: March 2017 – Education June 2017 – A fter Care Sep tember 2017 – Social Work November 2017 – Health

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NEWS & EVENTS

Speak Out Magazine | SUMMER 2017

Young people influence change at Scottish Parliament Care experienced young people were recently invited to the Scottish Parliament to take part in a major review of the Children’s Hearing System.

Some of our care experienced staff, Chloe McKirdy, Lynzy Hanvidge and Alice Ferguson, were asked to Holyrood to give evidence to MSP’s on the Education & Skills Committee, about recent reforms to the Children’s Hearing System.

They were asked for their own experiences and opinions on serious and in-depth topics such as children’s’ participation in the hearings, the role and training of panel members, improvements to the hearing system, the role of advocates, safe guarders and solicitors, feedback, and interaction between the Hearing System and the Courts.

Reflecting on her experience of the day, Chloe commented: “At first I was nervous as I had no idea what to expect but we were made to feel very special which helped us relax. This 24

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was my first time giving evidence but I had met other young people who had done it before, and I felt passionately about adding my voice to the fight to make things better for all care experienced young people.”

After giving their evidence their views were presented to the Minister for Childcare & Early Years, Mark MacDonald, who thanked them for their input, arranged a tour around the Parliament. Alice was delighted when she even got to sit in Nicola

Sturgeon’s seat in the Chamber! This was a big day for the girls - not only will they never forget it, but their feedback informed the Committee’s thinking to help make changes to the way children and young people all over Scotland will experience Hearings in the future.

When asked whether she would be prepared to give evidence again, Chloe responded: “Yes, in a heartbeat. They made us feel valued and listened to, which isn’t something that happens all the time.”

NEWS & EVENTS

Speak Out Magazine | SUMMER 2017

t as e h S out

A postcard from

a i s A Brad Halliday, 24

from when Some of you may remember Brad d, now an he worked for Who Cares? Scotlan ut his new abo us s tell he here Alumni Member, adventure in Southeast Asia.

Happening team, you all good? Sending this all the way from sunny Thailand, whilst on tour for my new employer.

‘We Are Bamboo’ is a tour company that promotes responsible tourism and giveback-packing; the idea that back packers can make a positive impact on the countries they visit. I’m usually based in lovely little office in Siem Reap, in Cambodia… And yes, none of them can understand a word I say. Luckily, my job is mostly online and there’s no accent in typing.

I’ve been asked to share how I got here, perhaps to give a bit of hope to those of you in pursuit of your dreams, and even more so, to those of you who don’t see the point in dreams because you don’t think they’ll ever happen. It’s no secret that as a community, care experienced people go through some arduous times, and that change and opportunity can sometimes seem hard to come by. If someone told me 6 months ago, that I would be living and working in Southeast Asia, I wouldn’t have believed them – but here I am, working and living in Southeast Asia. Our team literally come from all over the world – every continent is accounted for. The one guy that can understand me the best, is Lhanz… a Filipino! The accent is totally

sound with him. They’re a great team, all of them have been very supportive, guided me in my new role and taught me different things for which I am very grateful. But, it was me who got the job in the first place! I put a lot of energy and enthusiasm into my CV, sent off my application and during the Skype interview I literally did a headstand! And that was it, I got the job. Now I have a job that I absolutely love which I got by reaching for it!

It’s important to remember that you can change things. Look at the young people who helped changed the law around care in Scotland in 2014. Already, each of you as Members of Who Cares?

Scotland have helped shape, create and implement some form of change in the care system. That commitment to making sure that everyone has a better and more stable up-bringing whilst in care, is a huge credit to you all. Your achievements with Who Cares? Scotland should convince you that you can do the same in your personal lives!

It’s a special feeling being involved in an organisation with such a terrific idea at its heart, (you all should know), it’s helped me a lot with my own mental health. It was only a year ago that I was ready for calling time on everything,

but I battled through to find something much brighter on the other side. During this tour I have done some amazing things like teach Thai kids English, visited an elephant sanctuary and cared for the elephants, as well as some small community development. I couldn’t have done any of these things if I’d given up on my dreams, add in a tenacious pursuit, a positive approach to mental health and a little bit of luck and your dreams really can become a reality.

For those of you interested in finding out about opportunities abroad, then contact Xchange Scotland and tell them Brad sent you. If I can help in any way let me know.

And with that, I’ll say cheerio for now.

Be your own champion and see what you can achieve.

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What’s HOT

NEWS & EVENTS ENTERTAINMENT

Speak Out Magazine | SUMMER 2017

& What’s NOT

By Emily, 17

S

outh Lanarkshire Care Leavers Group recently held a screening of the latest Ken Loach movie, I, Daniel Blake at Fairhills Lifestyle Centre in Hamilton.

Since performing well at the box office at the end of 2016, the movie has continued to be screened at smaller events across the country due to its topical and controversial subject matter. It was even discussed in parliament when Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn advised Prime Minister Theresa May to watch it.

Story: Daniel Blake (Dave Johns) is a 59-year-old widowed carpenter who must rely on welfare after a recent heart attack leaves him

unable to work. Despite his doctor’s diagnosis, British authorities deny Blake’s benefits and tell him to return to his job. As Daniel navigates his way through an agonising appeal process, he begins to develop a strong bond with a destitute, single mother (Hayley Squires) who’s struggling to take care of her two children.

South Lanarkshire Care Leavers group member, Emily (17) had this to say: Very realistic film, it makes you feel sorry for the characters and what they have to go through. The film really shames the government and is highly emotional. I can relate to how these characters struggled with money.

Fav scene: In the job centre when Daniel is frustrated with the staff because nobody is listening to him. The staff have a horrible tone of voice as if they don’t care.

The scene was really realistic and showed how difficult it can be to get the support you need.

Who should see this film: All young people, as many think it’s easy to get your own flat and job at 16 but it’s actually very difficult. Young people who might be in a hurry to leave care should watch this film as it can make you appreciate what you have. Relying on benefits on your own is like starting over again which is hard.

5 OUT OF 5 STARS

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NEWS & EVENTS ENTERTAINMENT

Speak Out Magazine | SUMMER 2017

Kingdom Hearts R

esident gamer, Charlie McFarlane, trials and reviews games - from the well-known to the obscure, from card games to computer games.

Want to know how to keep yourself entertained? Keep reading!

This issue I’ll be reviewing the popular Playstation game series, Kingdom Hearts, with the help of Alicia Sanatna, WC?S Member and Kingdom Hearts super fan!

Plot: Two major universes join forces in Disney RPG known as Kingdom Hearts. Beginning on an island, the game follows the story of a 14 year old boy named Sora as he travels across multiple worlds searching for the whereabouts of his lost friends. Kingdom Hearts brings together loads of familiar characters including Disney’s Mickey, Donald, and Goofy who go on to fight alongside Final Fantasy characters like Cloud and Sephiroth in their ongoing battle against an evil force known as The Heartless.

So Alicia, what is your story with Kingdom Hearts?

I have been playing KH since I was 8 and every time I play it, I’m taken back to being that young girl, drinking a

cup of tea and being angry at the fact that I could not beat the final bosses of KH 1. When I was younger, I loved the familiar Disney characters and fighting the villains from the movies.

As I got older, I stopped playing KH as much because I was growing up and was busy playing other games which were current, but KH was always a game that remained close to my heart because I realised that some of the only enjoyable parts of my childhood were spent playing this game as it allowed me to escape into an entirely different world.

Did you think that the Disney universe was portrayed well?

I think that Square Enix did an incredible job of introducing Disney into a Role Playing Game that united so many Disney and Final Fantasy fans.

I don’t think that the game would have been anywhere near as successful if there was no Disney collaboration as it introduced a lot of Disney fans to the gaming world – and there are a lot of Disney fans.

Who is your favourite character and why?

Axel! We meet him in KH2. He is very rebellious, but later on we discover a

different side to him and that is what I adore about him.

I know this might be hard, but if you had to offer up one negative point, what would it be?

The first KH came out in 2002 for the PS2, now they’ve been remastered and it just feels weird using a PS4 controller. It feels sticky and glitchy, but I think that is part of the beauty of playing a remastered old game.

What do you think you have such a connection with this game?

Because I could relate to the story told in KH. Sora has to go on an adventure to fight the darkness within a series of worlds, which is what growing up in the care system felt like to me. Throughout the games, Sora is constantly reminded that he is a being of light, and that there are still glimmers of light within every world, even when the darkness takes over. I was very independent, much like Sora, and I was always told that I was strong because I never gave up. Kingdom Hearts taught me that I am still strong, even when I do give up, and even in the darkness, there is always light.

That was a really important message for me when I was young, and this quote sums it up: “The heart may be weak, and sometimes it may even give in, but I’ve learned that deep down there’s a light that never goes out…”

I think Alicia would kill me if I gave KH anything less than 5 stars – so here it is.

5 OUT OF 5 STARS

5

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NEWS & EVENTS ENTERTAINMENT

Speak Out Magazine | SUMMER 2017

IN IT TO WIN IT…

L A V I T S E F SUMMER

!

L A I SPEC

O

nce you’ve completed the IN IT TO WIN IT PAGE please return it to your Who Cares? Scotland APW or send it to Who Cares? Scotland, 5 Oswald Street, Glasgow, G1 4QR by Monday 18th September 2017 to be in with a chance of winning a £20 voucher of your choice.

1. Match the picture to the Festival?

D

KELBURN GARDEN PARTY

T IN THE PARK

A.

ROCKNESS COACHELLA B

A

2. This year what replaced the T in the Park festival?

C

3. Where is the Fringe Festival held?

A.

4. Name the Glastonbury 2017 headline act who sings this song?

She played the fiddle in an Irish band But she fell in love with an English man Kissed her on the neck and then I took her by the hand Said, “baby, I just want to dance”

A.

YOUR NAME: AGE: PHONE: WC?S WORKER: RETURN YOUR ENTRIES TO: WHO CARES? SCOTLAND, 1st Floor, 5 Oswald Street, Glasgow G1 4QR. 28

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5. Name this stage and the festival it can be found at?

A. A.

HHHHHHHH

H

H LAST ISSUES WIN NERS ARE: Charlie Vallance, 8 Faith McCormick, 9 Abbi Ferrara, 16 Joshua Smith, 11 Molly Browne, 15

HHHHHHHH

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ENTERTAINMENT NEWS & EVENTS

Speak Out Magazine | SUMMER 2017

JUST FOR FUN… S E P A R K N I L M Y C F

S P S E J H U O T E R V V

BEACH PARK

P O H T H L E T P C S A A

A T O D R S O D I U R S C

D E R M A R A T C O N W A

BUCKET CAMPING

E I T C T R V T N R G I T

S N S G N I E M I J S M I

T I P N D K Q A C T N M O

SPADE PICNIC

I K I A C E U R S T F I N

C I D U S C I A E U L N O

S B B O X I N G C B Y G M

SWIMMING VACATION

A O N L N N C E N E R S K

R L C A M P I N G A A O O

S Y L F R E T N U C N U Y

S R I C S N A P P H R G S

BIKINI SHORTS

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NEWS & EVENTS SO JUNIOR

R O I N U J O S Speak Out Magazine | SUMMER 2017

Buddy the Bear loves finding out what our younger members have been up to! Make sure you let him know!

Care2Create Ayrshire

T

he Care2Create group in Ayrshire have been having lots of fun, as well as learning about interesting topics.

Here are some photos from their Ancient Greece and Mad Science themed groups. And look at those amazing snacks, well it is hard work doing all that learning!

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NEWSSO & EVENTS JUNIOR

Speak Out Magazine | SUMMER 2017

Diamonds' Daytrip O

n Bank Holiday Monday the Ferguslie Diamonds had a real fun time. We packed up the minibus and headed to Lochwinnoch. The under 8’s went on an exciting scavenger hunt, working in teams to search for clues and finding out lots of new things along the way. The 8’s and over built a raft – how amazing to build our own boat and sail it. Lots of us got wet but we had life jackets on so stayed safe! Sometimes falling in was a bit scary but we all had an amazing time trying something new and got to work as a team and got to know each other better.

Amy’s Painting Amy used nail polish for this painting. Amy said “This painting is about my time in care. The black spots and swirls are when I got taken in to care and other bad things that have happened.

The other colours are things that happen when you are in care, some of them good, some not good but getting better as you go along until you come out the person that you are”

Amy (12)

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NEWS & EVENTS

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