Life Story Nest provides thoughtful, child-centred Life Story Work to help children and young people in care make sense of their history, relationships and experiences.
A specialist, sensitive approach supporting children and young people navigating care and family transitions.
Children in care can have unanswered questions about their early life, family, relationships and the reasons they came into care.
Life Story Work gives children space to explore those experiences in an age-appropriate and sensitive way. It brings together information about their past with their own memories, feelings, questions and understanding.
The aim is to help a child develop a clearer sense of who they are, where they have come from and how their story connects with their present and future. Life Story Work is an ongoing, child-centred process rather than simply producing a book.
By working at the child's pace and in partnership with their carers and social workers, the work helps reduce anxiety, clear up misconceptions, and build a cohesive narrative of their life journey.
Supporting children across four key dimensions of their development and well-being.
Helping children make sense of important events, transitions and experiences in their early lives with sensitivity and clarity.
Exploring family background, culture, identity and the personal qualities that make each child unique.
Supporting children to explore important people, past and present, and their significant relationships in a thoughtful way.
Helping children connect their history with who they are becoming and where they want to go in their lives.
A thoughtful, child-centred approach to Life Story Work.
I am Emma Bowers, a specialist Life Story Worker based in Leicestershire and supporting children, young people, and local authorities across the East Midlands.
My work is grounded in a deep commitment to children in care. I believe every child deserves a safe, calm, and approachable professional to help them piece together their narrative without pressure or confusion.
Working collaboratively with social workers, foster carers, and residential teams, I ensure the pace and content of the work always respect the child's emotional readiness and developmental stage.
A structured, four-step journey designed around the needs of the child and referring professionals.
A conversation with the referring professional to understand the child's circumstances and what support is needed.
Relevant information, relationships, memories and experiences are explored carefully and sensitively.
Work is adapted to the child's age, development, communication style and readiness.
The work helps the child develop a clearer and more coherent understanding of their story, identity and relationships.
Life Story Nest works with children and young people in care and alongside the professionals and carers supporting them.
Referrals typically involve:
If you are a social worker or professional considering Life Story Work for a child or young person, get in touch to discuss their circumstances and whether the service would be appropriate.