Writer and performer Lemn Sissay is a force of nature. He spent his first 18 years bouncing between foster families, children’s homes and assessment centres. Since then he has come to terms with his trauma by telling his story around the world.
Now he travels to Coventry to meet seven young people currently in the care of the council, who between them have had 40 different placements and 70 social workers. His mission is to help them express their experiences through words, and perform them to an audience that can make a difference to their lives.
It’s 30 years since Lemn left the care system and he believes that not enough has changed for these young people. So together, by putting on an epic performance for a packed theatre of decision-makers, they seek to change the way we see kids in care, and how they see themselves.
Superkids: Breaking Away from Care is a provocative and uplifting film, which challenges our prejudices in a profound and surprising way.
‘Writer Lemn Sissay spent years “bouncing between” foster families, children’s homes and assessment centres: “It messed with my head, but I stayed sane.” He wants to change perceptions of kids in care, and, in this inspiring film, helps youngsters from Coventry express their experiences’ – The Guardian
Bafta Nominated – Specialist Factual
CHANNEL 4 – 1 x 60’
Executive Produced By Colin Barr & Amy Flanagan
Produced By Emily Turner
Filmed & Directed By Guy King