This is the story of six people who started life differently-one of them in another country-but who shared the experience of a childhood in Children's Homes, institutions or foster care in Australia. They are strong and hopeful people, but they live with the trauma of childhood abuse and neglect, and they find many aspects of everyday living challenging. They are members of a very large group of people who call themselves the Forgotten Australians.
It is also a documentation of history, told through the eyes of these six people. These six have been chosen because they are members of the Alliance for Forgotten Australians and have support networks in place. Meet Caroline, Allan, Tony, Wilma, Pamella and Laurie, as they bring to life the story of the Forgotten Australians.
This DVD is an educational resource, aimed at providers of welfare, health and other services who will work more effectively with Forgotten Australians if they understand what makes them who they are.
These videos should be used with care. Some people-including the survivors themselves, but also others-will find it disturbing and distressing. These personal stories, and the vision of Children's Homes, are emotional and confronting. They are also moving and powerful, showing the strength of survivors and the things that inspire them to work for a better world.
Forgotten Australians or others who have experienced childhood trauma should consider seeking out the support of family or a trusted friend or counsellor when viewing these stories. Educators should consider the potential impact when deciding what supports to offer to students who may be affected by it. Team leaders and managers may wish to offer supervision/debriefing for staff.
Last updated: 7 August 2023
Cite this: https://www.findandconnect.gov.au/ref/qld/bib/QP0000160.htm
First published by the Find & Connect Web Resource Project for the Commonwealth of Australia, 2011
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