Andy Smith From Smash Life UK opens up about his experience as a care leaver

Growing up in the UK Care System, Andy Smith opens up about some of the comments, barriers and difficulties he faced as a care leavers. From that, him and his brother launched Smash Life UK (link below) which is all about supporting and empowering others who may be in similar circumstances. Last week Andy shared an experience he had which reflects some of the stigma attached to care leavers.

“You grew up in care? You look to smart to have grown up in care you have a suit”

TRUE STORY. A leaving care team manager I just met said this to me at an awards evening last year. And trust me comments like these knock you for 6 and take you right back to being that child no one wanted to connect to but labelled.

I am not sharing to shame I am sharing to change PERCEPTIONS and help people understand this is still happening to children every day and being completely honest my reply and mindset following this when I was younger still caught up in my trauma and abuse would have been a lot different.

If only that team manager new my journey and my passion as a result of my journey in care.

NOW....it’s just fuel to my fire to change mindsets and perceptions through educating, engaging and inspiring.

Children FEEL every word...they are particularly sensitive due to the worlds they have lived...choose your language wisely and kindly.

“Overcoming Lifes Hurdles Together”

Get in touch via. their website:
www.smashlifeuk.com