The councillor in charge of Children’s Services for the city has praised the new TV show ‘Kids’ and the “bravery and honesty” of all those involved in the filming.
The Channel 4 series has already attracted praise from many after its first episode was screened last week. It continues tonight (17 May), with the final episode a week later.
It has fascinated viewers with its close-up look at teenagers and their families in the care system in Coventry – and those working to help and support them.
Programme makers worked closely with Coventry City Council’s Children’s Services to create an in-depth look at the issues facing everyone involved, and they have created a show which gives unprecedented access to those in care.
Cllr Patricia Seaman, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People in the city, said she is delighted with the result and the way such an important story is being told.
She said: “I found ‘Kids’ to be very honest and realistic, and a story that needed to be told – especially from the viewpoint of those young people and their families.
“It demonstrates the work of Children’s Social Care to support the wishes and feelings of young people, to ensure their safety and assess the risks involved.
“It also shows how we actively work to keep families together, and only when there’s no other option are children removed, because we know that young people thrive and have better outcomes in life if they have a sense of belonging with their families - whether parents or wider networks.
“I have been struck by just how brave the young people and their parents and carers have been in taking part in this programme. They have shared so much, with the aim of helping others to understand their journeys and the impact on their lives, and how we all as a society can better understand and learn to support people in the right ways.
“Sometimes we can be very judgemental, but we all need to understand that no two families are the same, and with the right help and support everyone can be empowered to be the best that they can be. The key message really is that social care is here to help, and there should be no shame in needing that help.
“I am really delighted with the show. Coventry has wanted to tell the story of our families for some time, and we recognise the importance of telling this story and helping others to understand.
“As Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, I am so proud that we took this step. My heartfelt thanks to all who took part, the children, the families and all our incredible staff.”
The first episode told the story of Xorin, who, after being exploited as a young teen, is returning home to Coventry from a children’s home in Wales to rebuild his life with mum Kelly. We also met 19-year-old Annabelle, who is pregnant and determined to break the cycle of care that led to her being removed from her parents at the age of five.
The show returns tonight (17 May) when viewers will meet Byron and Bayley as they negotiate living on their own for the first time as they leave the security and support of their carers.
The final episode on 24 May will see Havana seek information on her birth father and Kane question why he went into care.
To see all the news about the show and more about the Council’s work to protect children and young people, visit www.coventry.gov.uk/kids.
To join the conversation on Twitter, use #kids.