Recognition Matters is a knowledge exchange project led by six women who have shared perspectives on child welfare and protection. Two academics, Dr Ariane Critchley from Napier University and Dr Mary Mitchell from the University of Edinburgh completed research projects with overlapping findings, which formed the basis of this work – they wanted to bring together their knowledge to strengthen practice and improve the experiences of families.
The team – academics, social work practitioners and a young mother (Azaria, with experience of child protection processes) – made a short film where Azaria tells her story in her own words. She recounts her experiences of pre-birth child protection and being part of a Family Group Conference for her child. She explains how important the relationships she built with professionals were for her, and for her family.
The film is designed to be used as a teaching and training tool, and to be shared with families who are going through child welfare processes. A project briefing document is attached.
