“Looked After Boy.” An Interview With Lynda Brennan

In this Podcast we interview Lynda Brennan who has written a remarkable book called “Looked After Boy.” It raises questions about young people and care, about deprivation and county gangs. We are left wondering whether we have a care system around both children and problem families that is fit for purpose.

For readers Joe the 13+Looked after Boy tackles difficult, but topical, issues. It is a gritty, but moving, tale of a marginalised group; that of children in the care system at risk of involvement in County Lines gangs.

Joe s unique voice and sparkly personality speaks out from every page and, despite the topics tackled, young readers will empathise with Joe as his story deals with familiar issues of fear, separation and loss. The story doesn't t shirk away from the telling of Joe’s experiences, but it does offer hope too.

Lynda M Brennan was a drama teacher for many years in schools and Pupil Referral Units. She created Acting Out, a therapeutic drama project working with vulnerable children using creative drama and story. With Islington Virtual School, she trained foster carers and became a foster carer thus gaining insight into the needs of vulnerable Looked After young people. She is now the Artistic Director of Tottenham Theatre - a community-based theatre