Creativity allowed me to navigate the care systemAshley John-Baptiste
To mark National Care Leavers’ Week, the key note speakers for Culture Cares are sharing their thoughts on the importance and relevance of the conference, that will take place on Tuesday 16 November 2021 at Derby Theatre and online.
Arts Council England‘s Chief Executive Darren Henley says:
“When I attended the first Culture Cares conference three years ago I was struck by the way it celebrated the talent and creativity of children and young people who are currently living, or have lived, in foster and care homes right across the country.
I firmly believe that if we’re to have a truly vibrant and creative and cultural sector that everyone, whatever their background and wherever they live, should have access to the best in culture and the chance to develop their creative talents: giving them the chance to shine.
This year’s conference will again show how children and young people who have experienced local authority care are empowering themselves and being helped to do just that by those working in the creative and cultural sector. I’m incredibly proud of the ways the Arts Council supports that amazing and valuable work.”
BBC journalist and presenter Ashley John-Baptiste says:
“As a child growing up in care, music became a sacred outlet for me – it was my place of expression, safety and making sense of my trauma.
Creativity allowed me to navigate the care system, and I think it’s remarkable that this Culture Cares conference delves into that important intersection of care and culture. Whoever attends this event, will be richer because of it.”
About Culture Cares
In response to the current Care Review (England), Culture Cares brings the cultural and care sectors together for insightful and lively conversations, presentations and workshops.
Together we will explore how arts and culture are making a positive impact and creating pathways in the lives of care-experienced young people.
The day features a brand-new performance co-created with care-experienced young people, commissioned by Arts Council England for this event.
The conference has been developed in partnership with partners of the Esmée Fairbairn Young People Leaving Care funding stream, including Curious Monkey, Blue Cabin and Articulate.