Dorset care leavers are inviting the public to see the world from their perspective as they mark Care Day 2026, which takes place on 20th February, with a new short film titled In My Shoes.
The film was created by young people with care experience, supported by Dorset Youth Voice, after they specifically asked the council to recognise Care Day more meaningfully.
Care Day, run by the charity Become, is the world’s biggest celebration of children and young people with care experience, shining a light on their achievements and championing their voices.
One young person says: “It broke me, but I made something from the pieces.”
Another adds: “We are the same people, we just don’t live with our parents.”
A further young person explains: “Please understand that we might need different things at different times.”
The film also invites people to “ask kind questions” and to look beyond a young person’s care history, recognising their goals, strengths, and all the brilliant things they have to offer.
Its aim is to raise awareness of what it’s really like to be a care‑experienced young person, challenge misconceptions, and promote greater understanding across the community.
Cllr Clare Sutton, Dorset Council’s Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, Education and Skills, said: “I’m incredibly proud of the video our brilliant young people have created.”
“We hope it helps people understand some of the experiences care‑experienced young people face, and encourages everyone to show compassion and curiosity.”
Mainstream school can sometimes be challenging for care‑experienced young people, especially when they’ve faced instability or disruption in their lives.
Care‑experienced young people benefit from the Dorset Virtual School through dedicated educational oversight, targeted support, and advocacy that helps remove barriers to learning.
The Virtual School tracks each child’s progress closely and makes sure the schools they attend understand their needs and aspirations.
This service champions high expectations, helps maintain consistent support. You can find out more about the Virtual School offer at: Virtual School for Children in Care, Care Leavers and children with a Social Worker | Dorset Nexus
To show their support of Care Day, some key members of Children’s Services have been pictured with “I care”, written on the palms of their hands
To watch the full video see: In My Shoes – YouTube.
To find out more about the work of Dorset Youth Voice see Dorset Youth Voice – Dorset Council or follow them on Instagram at: Dorset Council | Young People | Youth Voice (@dorsetcouncilyouth) • Instagram photos and videos
