‘It is vital that their memories and personal histories are given extra special care’
Virtual Memory Box allows care-experienced people to capture experiences in one accessible place.(Image: Hull City Council)
A new digital platform is being introduced by Hull City Council. The new system aims to help young people in care safely record, store and reflect on their life stories.
The council has now approved the use of Virtual Memory Box. This is a secure online system that allows care-experienced children and young people to capture important memories, milestones and experiences in one accessible place.
In social care practice, life story work is vital. It helps children to understand who they are, where they come from and the decisions that have shaped their lives.
According to the council, this information has traditionally been kept in a physical memory box or paper records, which can be damaged or lost over the years. The Virtual Memory Box will enhance life story work and support the capture of further memories, the council said.
The platform allows photos, videos, audio recordings and documents to be uploaded and organised into a visual timeline. Children and young people can add captions or voice notes, helping them to tell their story in their own words.
Social workers, carers and other professionals can also contribute appropriately, ensuring that memories are captured collaboratively, while remaining safe and secure. The council confirmed the system includes robust cybersecurity measures, and content cannot be permanently deleted, reducing the risk of accidental loss.
Councillor Linda Tock, Portfolio Holder for Children’s Services at Hull City Council, said: “For children and young people in care it is vital that their memories and personal histories are given extra special care.
“Virtual Memory Box provides a secure and modern way for young people to keep hold of their life stories and better understand their own journeys. This supports identity, wellbeing and a sense of belonging.”