LAW
Help – Jenn says added stability can play a vital role in improving the lives of vulnerable youngsters .
little or no contact from their parents or family .
In 2008 , the Children and Young Person ’ s Act extended this duty so any young person in care could be eligible to have an IV , if considered to be in their best interests .
“ Unlike other support systems which may change , the IV remains a constant , aiming to engage , inspire and motivate young individuals facing challenges . I see myself as a friend , someone who is there to listen and most of all , have fun !”
The role she applied for saw Jenn complete a training course before being matched with a young person with whom she has built a relationship over time . Importantly , neither she nor the child knew about each other ’ s backgrounds before beginning their journey , allowing the relationship to develop organically .
“ The child now knows what I do for a living , but only because they opened up and wanted to know ,” she emphasises .
“ My decision to volunteer stemmed from my desire to establish a relationship with a young person outside the confines of my solicitor ’ s role . I wanted to be a source of support and joy , without the burden of legal intricacies .
“ Often adults involved with children in foster care are involved in a professional capacity because of the difficult childhood they have had , which has resulted in them going into care . Therefore , adults are often telling a child what decisions ( including legal ) are being made for them , sometimes
despite the child ’ s negative or indifferent feelings towards that .
“ The commitment , although initially a concern due to my demanding job , has proved manageable , as Changing Futures understood and expected only a couple of hours every fortnight from me or indeed any IV .
“ I do give a bit more than this as I really look forward to spending some quality time switching off and going roller skating or ice skating – although I admit I ’ m normally clinging on for dear life !”
Jenn ’ s dedication to her buddy role has persisted beyond the initial twoyear commitment , which will come as no surprise to those who know her . She continues to support many children she has represented in her “ day job ”, even after her role as their solicitor in legal proceedings has concluded .
Jenn shares heartwarming anecdotes of children she has represented who stayed in touch , emphasising the importance of stability in the lives of vulnerable youngsters .
She said : “ Many children I ’ ve represented directly rather than through CAFCASS have continued to stay in touch throughout their life and I will get an email every now and then telling me what they are up to and the progress they have made . They know I ’ m here in case they have any legal issues and I love hearing from them .
“ One child was so grateful that I represented her and stood by her despite her difficult behaviours which resulted – in her perception – in abandonment by her family . This experience has crossed over into my role at Changing Futures North East , where I can be someone to talk to , to go out and have fun with and not a professional dictating what they have to do .”
Changing Futures North East is seeking more IVs , as there are still many children in foster care without allocated support . Jenn advocates for the programme , emphasising the profound impact it can have on the lives of vulnerable children .
She acknowledges the perceived daunting nature of the two-year commitment but encourages prospective volunteers to consider the valuable time they could contribute to making a difference in a child ’ s life .
“ When you think of how much time you waste scrolling on your phone every week , you could be giving that precious time to a child and really making such a difference in their lives . That ’ s what keeps me motivated ,” she says .
To discover more about Punch Robson Solicitors ’ comprehensive legal services , visit punchrobson . co . uk . For more about Changing Places North East visit changingfuturesne . co . uk .
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