My Childhood in the Care System, with Baroness Lola Young
Intelligence Squared
Deep Dive
Why did Baroness Lola Young decide to write her memoir 'Eight Weeks'?
Baroness Lola Young initially did not want to write the memoir, but friends and others encouraged her, suggesting that her story was compelling and should be told in her own words. She began writing it years ago but felt it lacked depth until she discovered her care records, which added a new layer of insight and emotional resonance to her story.
What role did Lola Young's care records play in the writing of her memoir?
Lola Young's care records were pivotal in the writing of her memoir. They provided factual corroboration for her memories and offered fresh insights into her past, including the characters and events that shaped her childhood. This discovery transformed her approach to the book, making it more emotionally engaging and meaningful.
How did Lola Young describe her relationship with her foster mother, Daisy?
Lola Young described her relationship with Daisy as complicated. While Daisy provided her with security for the first 14 years of her life, Lola always felt a sense of impermanence, fearing she might be sent away. Daisy, who was in her mid-60s when Lola came to her, was one of the few foster mothers in the area who would take Black children, and she held certain racial views that influenced Lola's upbringing.
What challenges did Lola Young face when she first went to Nigeria?
When Lola Young first went to Nigeria, she faced significant challenges, including an issue with her vaccination status that nearly resulted in her being sent back to London. Additionally, she found it difficult to reconcile the class differences between her relatives in Nigeria, who were upper middle class, and her own upbringing in a more modest environment in London.
How did Lola Young's experience in the care system influence her views on the current care system?
Lola Young acknowledges that while some aspects of the care system have improved, many challenges remain the same. She highlights the 'care cliff,' where young people are expected to be independent at 18, often without adequate support. She advocates for giving children and young people in care a stronger voice in shaping their futures and addressing their needs more effectively.
What was Lola Young's experience like when she was introduced to the House of Lords?
Lola Young's introduction to the House of Lords was a significant and moving moment. She described it as a surreal experience, seeing familiar political figures and realizing her place among them. She took advice to listen and observe for a year before speaking, ensuring she was well-prepared to represent herself and her community in such a venerable institution.
How did Lola Young's involvement with the Equity Afro-Asian Committee impact her?
Lola Young's involvement with the Equity Afro-Asian Committee was transformative. It provided her with a sense of solidarity and validation, as she was surrounded by people who shared similar experiences of racism. Her role as chair of the committee boosted her confidence and allowed her to articulate her experiences more effectively, contributing to her growth as an activist and leader.
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