From Care to Parenthood

From Care to Parenthood is a unique resource written by care leaver parents for care leaver parents. Every care leaver in Essex who becomes a parent will receive a copy of the book, ensuring they have access to the experiences, reflections and advice of others who have walked a similar path before them.

The book was developed in recognition of the fact that both leaving care and becoming a parent can be deeply isolating experiences. For many care experienced young people, parenthood can bring additional anxieties and uncertainty, often without the informal support networks available to other families. Through honest and compassionate narratives, the book seeks to reduce that isolation and reinforce an important message: no care leaver parent is alone in their journey.

Drawing on lived experience, the book explores issues that matter most to care leaver parents, including navigating parenthood without positive parenting role models, experiences of feeling judged because of care experience, building confidence as a parent, and managing the emotions and uncertainty that can arise if children's social care become involved with their family. In doing so, it offers reassurance, understanding and a sense of belonging to a wider community of care leaver parents across Essex.