Saturday, 8 October 2022

Pistis wonders at the difference a day makes (weekending October 8th 2022)

 

‽istis wonders at the difference a day makes (weekending October 8th 2022)

This week ‽istis wonders at the difference a day makes – the people who occupy the same space but at a very slightly different time, the words they might speak and the deeds that they might do.

Take, for example, the International Conference Centre in Birmingham, UK.

a)     Conservative Party conference: October 2nd – October 5th 2022

b)     National Children and Young People’s Care Awards: October 6th 2022[i]

Many words were spoken[ii] and written for both events and perhaps, tracing back to a point of commonality where dialogue could just possibly start, there was maybe something indeed shared – ostensibly wishing to improve things for people. But the how in terms of means, process, target, priorities, ideology, practice, etc. – may have differed considerably.

So, a quiz: which event did the following come from: a) the Conservative Party Conference[iii] and especially the Leader’s speech (all made up of one-liners, it seems[iv], b) the C&YP Care Awards[v]‽

·        I have seen people left with no hope turning to drugs.

·        Instead, we need to grow the pie so that everyone gets a bigger slice.

·        A room full of: hard working people who go above and beyond to ensure the best possible outcomes for children and young people, enabling them to live their best lives.

·        Fundamentally, growth helps people fulfil their hopes and their dreams.

·        When the government plays too big a role, people feel smaller.

·        A plane taking off to Rwanda. That’s my dream, that’s my obsession.

·        Above all we have seen an overriding determination to ensure that the voices of vulnerable children and young people continue to be heard.

·        We are taking a new approach based on what has worked before.

·        We are in tough times.

·        We hear first-hand the challenges that the workforce face and witness how with determination, professionalism, and empathy they rise to those challenges.

·        So let me be clear, we have your back.

·        It’s not a U turn…it’s a change of direction.

·        You – are nothing short of inspiring. Your energy and ambition is the perfect model for us…

·        That means ensuring we are safe and secure.

·        I say the real heroes are those who go to work, take responsibility and aspire to a better life for themselves and their family. And I am on their side.

·        We must stay the course.

·        The status quo is not an option.

·        We are honoured to be in a room with so many inspirational people and proud to celebrate with you this evening.

·        I get it.

·        I am committed to making a difference in the lives of people…

·        Help us pay tribute to the unsung heroes of our sector

·        This mission will be difficult but it is necessary.

·        We became complacent.

·        Economic growth makes life better and easier for everyone – and it will level up our country.

·        I know the plan…  has caused a little turbulence.

·        The passion and care demonstrated was palpable and the success and outcomes they have achieved deserves recognition

·        More regulation, more meddling…  wrong, wrong, wrong.

·        There was a complete togetherness in how they work to achieve the best outcomes…

·        What a conference it’s been… that wasn’t meant to be the funny bit!

Perhaps the final word might come from the voices of children and young people from a national survey (The Big Ask) undertaken by the office of the Children’s Commissioner for England: …they were united in what they said. They value happiness in their home wherever they live. They value community… mental and physical health… a great education… the environment…  a secure future… getting on in life. 

Certainly one group of people at the ICC this past week listen to this message every day - and work every day (often with limited and maybe reducing resources, with low financial reward or status) to rise to the challenge, the duty, the responsibility, the privilege of helping to meet the needs of the most vulnerable, excluded, minoritised, disabled, let down, traumatised, in need - yet who, with adequate resources and opportunities, with support and care, can thrive.  

So, what a difference a day or two makes… in Birmingham, in Parliament, in foster homes and care homes. Two very different events at the ICC but ‽istis knows which event would be the preferred one to attend, and is pretty sure which one might just perhaps, possibly, may be the most important‽

 © ‽istis                                                                                                                    

NB: further reflections and comments linked to this week’s theme and past blog entries to be found on Twitter: replies, retweets (which don’t necessarily indicate approval, sometimes the very opposite!) and ‘likes’: @Pistis_wonders. ‘Follows’ and respectful comment and dialogue welcome...  

 


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