Cared-for children and young people from across Leicestershire are sharing their perspectives through a new photography exhibition, which opened today in Leicester city centre.
More than 100 images, taken by children and young people of all ages, are on display in a pop-up exhibition at the Highcross from Monday, January 19 to Friday, January 23.
Picture credit: Unsplash
The exhibition, titled Our year of belonging through a lens, was organised by Leicestershire County Council’s Virtual School and followed a 12-month project in which participants attended workshops to learn how to use a camera and express their experiences visually.
The photographs explore themes of belonging and identity, with subjects ranging from nature scenes and football goalposts to family members and everyday moments that hold personal meaning.
Councillor Charles Pugsley, lead member for children and families at Leicestershire County Council, said:
“There are some fantastic submissions, many of which are reflective and provide a personal insight into what belonging means to our cared-for children.
“Many carers also got involved, supporting young people at home to take photos of things that make them feel included. We’re proud to be supporting our children and young people in care and of the wonderful work they have produced. If you happen to be out and about in the Highcross, do drop in and take a look for yourself.”
The Virtual School supports the education of more than 1,000 children in care and care leavers, working closely with early years settings, schools, carers and social workers. The project involved a number of county schools, with additional contributions coming from groups such as Care to Dance.
The exhibition is located in a unit in the upper mall of the Highcross shopping centre, next to Boots, and is open daily between 10am and 3pm.
