My Life Story About Being in Care
by Rachel (at age 12)
I've been in care five times since I was 6, I had my seventh birthday in care then a few months afterwards I went back. That happened another four times. When I was nine I came for the fifth time, then the court said I had to stay in 'til I am eighteen. Then six months later my two sisters were adopted and my brother was put in long term foster.
When all my friends found out they were all sorry for me, but I'm not allowed anywhere on my own at night and all my friends are. When my friends are still out talking on our street me and Nikita have to go in, which is not fair.
Foster Homes are not fair on young people. What happened to me to get me in care is my mum used to hit us and I told my school, they told the Social Services and I thought it was so unfair. Now my mum has learnt her lesson, so I want to go back.
A National Voice
is an organisation run by and for care experienced young people. Staff are also care experienced.
Our main aim is to create positive changes to the Care System in England and provide a national platform to hear the voices of approx 60,000 children and young people who are Looked After.