By Jacqui Shurlock and Vicki Swain, Joint Head of Policy and Campaigns 

Over the last few months, we asked you to share your views on the final report of the independent review of children’s social care in England. You did so through our care review survey, at focus groups and in forum meetings. Thank you to everyone who got involved! 

In this blog, we will tell you how we will be using your feedback. We are also looking at the recommendations you think would do most to improve outcomes for children and young people. The blog features the views of the 665 foster carers who responded to our survey or attended our forums and consultation events. 

At the age of 12 he suggested fostering to his parents, at the age of 18 he fought his first mixed martial arts fight, now, aged 26, he has embarked on a professional fighting career and dreams of fostering and opening a children’s home. Meet Luke ‘the Gent’ Trainer.

I believe that every care experienced person applying to university should tick the box. We’re all just trying to succeed in a world that expects us to fail; and I absolutely would have, had it not been for the support my university gave me when I needed it most.  

Chrissy Brown is a HR generalist and mental health advocate. She is the founder of Young Positive Minds which aims to empower children and provide them with the tools they need to maintain good mental health when faced with challenges. Here she tells us about positive affirmations and how to reinforce resilience in children and young people.