FCA on the Case -- Foster Care Associates Suitcase Exhibition to Tour the UK

Coinciding with National Care Leaver's Week (October 23 - 29), Foster Care Associates (FCA) launched an exhibition of artwork which brings together a colourful display of hand-painted suitcases, created by looked after children. The FCA suitcase exhibition is set to tour the UK and will be on display at a number of venues during 2007.

(PRWEB) December 23, 2006 -- Coinciding with National Care Leaver's Week (October 23 - 29), Foster Care Associates (FCA) launched an exhibition of artwork which brings together a colourful display of hand-painted suitcases, created by looked after children. The FCA suitcase exhibition is set to tour the UK and will be on display at a number of venues during 2007.

The exhibition aims to raise awareness of the need to stop using bin bags to transport the possessions of foster children when they move homes or leave care. It supports the national campaign 'This is Not a Suitcase,' organised by A National Voice charity.

The FCA exhibition went on display at the Tate Britain Gallery, on October 23, as part of 'Futures' -- a performing arts event which marked the start of National Care Leavers Week 2006 and includes a fashion show featuring outfits made from bin bags.

Commenting, Luke Chapman, FCA care leaver co-ordinator explained: "Our collection of hand-painted suitcases pays tribute to the creative talents of looked after young people who have expressed their inner thoughts and emotions as they prepare to leave care and move towards adulthood.

"The dual message represented by the suitcases reflects transition in the life of a young person in the care system and secondly it underlines the respect which should be attributed to the life possessions and memories of that young person."

He added: "Many care leavers may experience feelings of anxiety and loneliness as they find themselves living independently without appropriate support structures. It is precisely at this point they need continued guidance and reassurance yet so many looked after young people are left to fend for themselves.

"Opportunities such as supported lodgings and accommodation schemes do go part way in helping these individuals but there is so much more that can be done. If we are to achieve positive outcomes, then surely it is our job to ensure the right measures are put in place to help those leaving care."

FCA believes the exhibition offers opportunity to express the issues that are important to looked after children and young people in a way that will impact powerfully on everyone who has the honour of seeing their work.

For more information about foster care in the UK and to learn more about Foster Care Associates, visit www.thefca.co.uk.

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