With a decade of experience in marketing fostering services and a commitment to social value enterprises, we set out to create something truly unique, a campaign shaped by the voices of children in care. Here’s how we turned a vision to produce an authentic and truly original campaign into reality.
Co-Producing with Young People and Essex County Council
At the heart of this project was our commitment to ensuring that children in care had a direct role in shaping the message. Through close collaboration with Essex County Council’s Fostering Services, we worked under safeguarding guidelines to engage young people in a meaningful and safe way. Their insights and lived experiences were invaluable in creating an authentic campaign that truly reflects their journey.
The Vision: A Film Inspired by ‘Real Experiences’
Working with the Essex Fostering team, we developed a compelling short film that aims to resonate with potential foster carers and the wider community. The film captures the emotional transition of a child entering foster care, from initial anxiety to a newfound sense of belonging. We’re so proud of the finished product, and even more so of the children involved in the process.
The Creative Process
To ensure authenticity, we followed a structured approach:
- Workshops with Children in Care: Gathering real life experiences and emotions to inform the narrative.
- Script Development : Transforming their insights into a powerful and relatable story.
- Storyboarding and Direction : Designing visuals that capture the highs and lows of a foster care journey.
- Production : Bringing the vision to life with a high-quality, emotionally compelling film.
- Final Delivery – The campaign is now live, ready to be shared across various platforms.
A Journey Told Through 'Sarah'
The film follows the journey of 'Sarah,' a young girl entering foster care. Her emotions evolve throughout the story:
- Fear and Uncertainty : Feeling like an outsider in a new home.
- Hesitation and Adjustment : Small gestures, like having her name on a bedroom door, helping her settle.
- Belonging and Acceptance : Realising she is truly part of a family.
- A New Chapter : Reflecting on the significance of her foster family's support.
Why This Matters
This campaign isn’t just about storytelling; it’s about representation. By co-producing this film with young people who have experienced care, we’ve created something that is not only impactful but also deeply personal. Their voices shaped the narrative, making it an honest and heartfelt portrayal of fostering.
What’s Next?
With the campaign now live, we encourage everyone to share this film and help spread awareness about the importance of fostering. Essex County Council’s Fostering Services continues to seek compassionate individuals who can make a difference in a child’s life.
We are incredibly proud of this collaboration and grateful to the young people who helped bring this project to life. Their courage and openness have made this campaign truly special.
