Keeping Memories

It is difficult to know where you are going if you don’t know where you came from!

For most young people, the birth family is the place where they have all the knowledge and memories about the young person. Young people separated from their families do not have daily access to this information about their background.

It becomes more difficult for them to develop a strong sense of self and to understand how the past may influence present behaviours. Without this awareness, it will be more difficult for them to make conscious choices and to take responsibility for their own behaviours.

It is important that young people have a good understanding of their background and you will help this process from the day the young person is placed with you.

You should record the story of the young person’s stay with you as fully as possible, including:

• Details of achievements;
• Birthdays, Christmas and other family celebrations/outings/holidays etc. - photos, cards, etc;
• Details and photos of your family (including extended family), home, pets etc;
• Education - photos, certificates, reports, photos of and stories from teachers/lecturers;
• Contact visits;
• Significant illnesses;
• Funny stories;
• Photos and video clips of birth family with your family.

You should keep all memories in a memory box or book specifically for the young person.