Learning from People with Lived Experience Seminar: Attachment in action, the perspective from a foster parent.

This research seminar is open to members of the West Midlands Social Work Teaching Partnership. Please see below our Partner organisations.

Join us for an informative seminar delivered by a foster parent, exploring the crucial topic of attachment and trauma in children in care.

Through their lived experience, our presenter will share insights on:

• The devastating effects of trauma on children's behaviour and communication

• How children process the traumatic experiences they've endured

• The challenges faced by foster carers caring for children who have suffered significant trauma

This training aims to equip social work practitioners with a deeper understanding of:

• How trauma affects children's attachment styles

• Strategies to support foster carers caring for traumatized children

• Effective ways to support the emotional well-being of children in care

A note from Jonathan Clayton: As a same-sex couple, we've had the privilege of fostering for nearly 10 years. My partner is a care-experienced individual who has navigated their own journey, and together we share our unique experiences and insights.

We've witnessed many successful outcomes with our foster children, as well as faced challenges that we've overcome along the way. Through open, honest, and reflective conversations with professionals and people with lived experience, we've learned a wealth of knowledge from both our training and our children's perspectives.

We're passionate advocates for children in care, employing the therapeutic parenting model P.A.C.E. to guide our approach. We believe in treating every day as an opportunity for growth, learning, and connection. Our goal is to share, involve, educate, and make a positive impact – whether big or small.

Deadline to register: Monday 6th of January

Partner organisations:

Birmingham Children's Trust

Birmingham City Council

Birmingham City University

Cheshire East Council

City of Stoke-on-Trent Council

City of Wolverhampton Council

Coventry City Council

Coventry University

Dudley Metropolitan Borough Council

Keele University

Sandwell Children's Trust

Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council

Shropshire Council

Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council

Staffordshire County Council (Including MPFT)

Staffordshire University

Telford & Wrekin Council

University of Birmingham

University of Warwick

University of Wolverhampton

University of Worcester

Walsall Council

Warwickshire County Council

Worcestershire County Council