Children in care able to record memories digitally
Getty ImagesChildren living in care are using a digital platform to capture their important memories, milestones and experiences.
Gateshead Council has given young people in care access to Virtual Memory Box, an online system allowing photos, videos, audio recordings and documents to be stored in one place.
Mementoes were previously kept in a physical memory box or through paper records, which can be lost or damaged over the years.
The council's strategic director of children's social care Helen Fergusson said it was "vital" children were able to record their personal histories so they can "keep and treasure" them throughout their lives.
"More than 500 children and young people in Gateshead will be provided with a secure and modern way to keep hold of their life stories and better understand their own journey, supporting identity, wellbeing and a sense of belonging," she said.
The memories collected through the platform can be organised into a visual timeline and the system will allow social workers and foster carers to contribute.
It includes "robust cybersecurity measures" and the technology does not allow information to be permanently deleted, reducing the risk of accidental loss, the council said.
Virtual Memory Box has been rolled out to all children in care, with foster carers, children's care homes and social work staff given guidance and training on how to use the system.
The company's managing director, Christian Brock, said it was his aim to give all children in care access.
He said it was "wonderful" children in Gateshead would benefit from the tool, as the firm is based in the town's Northern Design Centre and it developed the system there.
