Celebrating the Premiere of "Next Steps": A Film by and for Care Leavers
The evening of the 3rd of June 2024 marked a significant milestone for the care leaver community with the successful online premiere of "Next Steps," a deeply moving documentary about the challenges and hopes of young people transitioning out of the care system.
Hosted by Goal 17 and their www.CareLeaverMentoring.co.uk Project, the event brought together over 100 attendees from a pool of more than 250 registered participants, all eager to witness this powerful 30-minute film. Produced by two inspiring care leavers, Matthew Cooper and Daniel Cleef, "Next Steps" aims to shed light on the often-overlooked experiences of young people leaving care, offering them hope and guidance during this critical transition to independent living and adulthood.
The film screening was followed by an engaging panel discussion featuring notable advocates and industry professionals. The panel included Chris Wild, a best-selling author and passionate campaigner for improving the UK's care system, and Patrick Spence, the BAFTA award-winning producer renowned for his impactful TV series, including ITV's "Mr Bates vs the Post Office". They were joined by our very own Fran Boorman (founder of Gold 17), along with the film's creators, Matthew and Daniel.
The discussion delved into the film's themes, the current state of the care system, and strategies for promoting the film to reach a wider audience. The event attracted a diverse audience, including young people, members of the general public interested in learning more about the care system, and care professionals looking to incorporate the film into their work with young people.
Feedback from attendees highlighted the film's powerful message, the importance of amplifying youth voices, and its potential to inspire hope among care leavers. The questions and comments received during the panel discussion underscored the film's impact and the need for continued dialogue and advocacy in support of care leavers.
"Brilliant film, well done to everyone involved. Thank you for sharing your experiences and these impactful insights. You are amazing." - Rowan Aderyn
"Really enjoyed this film and so refreshing to hear the voice of young people and what supports best work for them." - Caroline Meehan
"The stories are so powerful - you are all incredible!" - Hayley Cameron
"What an amazing film! I loved the honesty, words of wisdom, and insight!" - Aaliyah Fozol
"Such an inspirational film, thank you for sharing your stories." - Louise MacLennan
"Amazing film." - Eva Barraclough
"A brilliant film - congratulations to you both!" - Chloe Grant
"Such a great, insightful documentary. Well done!" - Gemma Neathey
"Incredible! Thank you for sharing with us all. I will be sharing with the young people we support." - Rebecca Lillie
"Well done Matthew and Daniel and to all the young people involved. This was so moving to watch and important to share more widely." - Jo Petty
For those who were unable to attend the premiere, a recording of the event is available for viewing here.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone involved in making this event a success, and we look forward to sharing "Next Steps" with an even broader audience to help drive positive change in the care system.
