A moving new short film is shining a light on the Mockingbird Family Model — this time, from a child’s perspective.
Filmed at the brilliant Mendip Activity Centre, the film beautifully captures the essence of what Mockingbird means to children in care: connection, belonging, and joy. Drawing directly from real feedback shared by children living in Mockingbird constellations across South Gloucestershire, the script gives an authentic and powerful voice to their lived experiences.
- “I like the sleepovers and activities!”
- “It’s good to know the adults I have to stay with.”
- “I love being part of Mockingbird and knowing I’m not alone.”
These words helped shape the film’s narrative, grounding it in the real emotions and experiences of the children themselves.
The film shows how something as simple as a sleepover, a shared laugh, or a familiar face can make a world of difference. Through their eyes, we see how Mockingbird creates a sense of safety, stability, and community.
Watch the Film – Mockingbird from a Child’s Perspective
What is Mockingbird?
The Mockingbird Family Model, led by The Fostering Network, is a pioneering approach to foster care. It creates a supportive “constellation” of foster families, centred around a hub home carer who offers guidance, sleepovers, social activities, and emotional support — just like an extended family.
In South Gloucestershire, Mockingbird has already made a huge impact:
- 100% of satellite carers say it improves stability and prevents placement breakdowns.
- 85% feel more supported through events, training, and peer groups.
- Children say they feel less alone and more connected.
Thank You
We extend heartfelt thanks to Mendip Activity Centre for supporting this project by providing their venue free of charge and to Telling Video for helping us bring this story to life.
This is the second film we’ve made about the Mockingbird Family Model. Watch the first one, which tells the story of Mockingbird from the foster carers perspective below.
