Backpacks have essentials for young people in care

Hundreds of backpacks containing essential items are being made available to children and young people who enter care unexpectedly.

East Riding of Yorkshire Council has received 400 backpacks provided by the HEY Smile Foundation and Nurture a Child charities.

They contain things including shampoo, a toothbrush and toothpaste, deodorant and sanitary products.

"These backpacks are a simple idea, but they can make a real difference. They mean that when a child or young person arrives into care unexpectedly, there is something ready for them – something practical that is theirs to keep and use," said Jamie Lewis, of HEY Smile Foundation.

"We can't change the circumstances that have brought a child into care, but together with Nurture a Child and East Riding of Yorkshire Council, we can help make that moment a little easier, and give a child some dignity, comfort and reassurance when they need it most."

The backpacks are being held by the council so they can be got hold of quickly when needed.

"Having experienced the care system myself as a child, I know that arriving into care can be an incredibly uncertain and unsettling time," said Lewis.

"You may not know what is going to happen next or even have the basic things that you need with you."

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