Tech firm Nebula Labs has built a new digital tool it says will support vulnerable young people in care.
The Newcastle firm has worked with South Tyneside Council to deliver the 'Virtual Memory Box' - a system in which young people can store and access memories that could otherwise be lost or forgotten. Its creation follows research by the council which found challenges faced by those in care.
The authority found that many young people find themselves in multiple placements over a number of years and therefore possessions can be misplaced or damaged in moves. It can result in distress for vulnerable young people.
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Now, the Virtual Memory Box is being used by a number of children, staff and carers across South Tyneside. And several other local authorities have expressed interest in using the system in their areas.
Coun Adam Ellison, lead member for children, young people and families, said: "This is a really exciting additional way for children and young people to store and then access key moments from their childhood in a safe and secure way.
"Too often children can lose special photos and mementos and by storing them digitally this enables protection of things that are important and help young people understand and recall what happens to them. We are committed to ensuring children understand their life story and have access to memories and the virtual memory box is another fantastic way of doing this."
Dylan McKee, CEO, Nebula Labs said: "We are really keen on developing digital solutions to use tech for good. We were excited to be appointed to work with South Tyneside Council on this innovation that will have a real impact on young people’s lives.
"Our Virtual Memory Box enables young people to navigate a ‘living timeline’ of visual, audio and text memories displayed in a scrapbook style, with a chronological timeline to scroll through, or users can search through thematic tags. Foster carers and social work staff can help build the memory box, uploading content, providing narrative and responding to comments from the young person – either within the platform or in discussion."
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