FURNESS children in care are being given cameras to record their experiences and thoughts as part of an innovative new project.

Signal Film and Media in Abbey Road, Barrow, has launched its 'Not Without Me' initiative, which will see looked after young people tell the world about their needs and the challenges they face through film.

The scheme will equip them with video recording, editing and script writing skills through workshops so they have the skills to express their feelings.

What the children produce is entirely up to them - it could be a documentary on the issues they face, a short drama film or a series of vlogs.

Full project control

Eddy Marshall, filmmaker with Signal Film and Media, said: "It's up to them. It's open ended. We are encouraging them to talk about what they need.

"It might be a drama film and we would encourage them to script it.

"It's for them to say to their carers this is who I am and this is what I need. We will help them realise this.

"One of the things children in care think about is they are often the affect of other powers, they are part of an institution and they have difficulty being heard.

"They are hard to reach kids but the ones that we have had coming out to talk to us bring an awful lot of creativity."

Funding award

The project has received the backing of the Barrow Community Trust, a branch of Cumbria Community Foundation, which has granted organisers £5,000 to run the workshops and offer expert tuition.

The money was made possible through contributions from Fryer Grassroots Grants and the Cumbria Young People's Fund.

John Dennis, committee member of Barrow Community Trust, said: "We are very pleased to help Signal Media and Film, who do such magnificent work in our local area.

"This grant towards their Not Without Me project will make a valuable contribution towards the reduction of feeling of isolation among these young people."

Other partners

The project is mainly aimed at looked after teenagers and young adults who are making the transition from care to independent living.

Specialist local youth providers Brathay Trust and Project John have helped identify those who could benefit from the work.

Watch the film produced by Signal Starters, a project for eight to 11-year-olds funded by BBC Children in Need

The Lost Story from Signal Film and Media on Vimeo.

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