A new community for children and young people in care

IPower My Life will help children and young people in care, aged 7-23, build stronger relationships, improve their well-being and feel that they belong. Many in this group experience loneliness and find it difficult to take part in school, leisure activities and their local community.

The project will be delivered in 12 residential care homes and will combine local activities with a safe online community. Participants will take part in workshops, shared experiences and interest-based groups, supported by coaches and mentors. Through the IPower platform, they can meet other children and young people in care, share experiences and support one another across geographical distances.

The participants will help choose and shape the activities. The aim is for them to move from the sidelines to active participation and discover that they have something valuable to contribute. At the same time, care professionals and mentors will gain practical tools for promoting well-being and a sense of belonging. The lessons learned will form a model that can subsequently be used by more residential care homes.