The Research Centre for Children and Families, University of Sydney, completed a study about what permanency means to young people with a care background. The study was grounded in the importance of hearing directly from young people about how they understand the concept of permanency and how decisions about permanency impact their lives.

This book represents the culmination of the 2-year project which used a participatory research method called Photovoice. Eleven young people took part in the project during 2019 and 2020. The young people took photos to reflect on their own history and explore what helps them feel connected, safe and secure. They worked together to select images and write captions that conveyed shared stories of resilience, belonging and cultural identity.

This book shares messages from these young people about the big and small things that helped them feel they belonged. We hope their messages reach those who work with and make decisions that impact on the lives of children and young people who are in out-of-home-care.

A free webinar will celebrate the launch of the photographic collection.

The webinar will discuss the project aims and use of participatory research methods with young people.

Young people who took part in the project and staff involved in the Youth Consult for Change group will share reflections on their experience of collaboration with academic to explore their views of permanency.

The researchers will discuss how the results from the study can be used to inform practice.