What is Shannon's Box?

Shannon's Box was created by Shannon Brown, a care experienced young person who wanted to create a hamper of gifts for those entering care. The box also supports workers to build the relationships that are key to overcoming adversity and trauma at such a crucial time.

With funding from the National Lottery and in partnership with East Ayrshire Health and Social Care Partnership, Shannon was employed by Staf to deliver the box in East Ayrshire to over 50 young people. The initiative was a finalist in the Scottish Charity Awards Pioneering Project category.

We are now seeking partners to deliver the box in other local authority areas to fulfil Shannon’s dream that every young person entering care receives Shannon’s Box.

What's in the box?

1 photo album 1 face cloth 1 teddy bear 1 night light 1 diary

1 set of colouring pens / crayons  1 reusable box 1 treasure chest box 1 book

 

Who designed the box?

The outside of the box was designed and illustrated by Tessa MacKenzie. You can find out more about her work at www.tessamackenzie.com. The box has been intentionally left black and white so that the young people who receive it can colour it in or individualise it as they wish.

What makes the box so special?

• The lived care experience is reflected in letter from Shannon.
• The items chosen by Shannon, with input from other young people, are influenced by their own experiences and are selected to bring comfort, ‘emotional necessities’ rather than practical necessities.
• It helps create a culture of welcome and belonging for a successful transition.
  
  

More than just a box...

In addition to the boxes Staf can also supply

• Workshop on nurturing a culture of welcome and belonging, through achieving a successful transition into care.
• Workshop on ‘how to do’ a Shannon’s Box.
• Workshop with young people to consult on the concept, contents and delivery of your box.
• Production of your box.
  
  

How much does a box cost?

• For under 20 boxes: £100 per box
• For over 20 boxes: £75 per box

Workshop costs

• Nurturing workshops for 20 staff: £350
• 'How to do' a Shannon's box workshop for 20 staff: £350
• Young people's workshop for 20 young people and staff: £350

How do you get signed up?

Contact Staf's Head of Learning & Development, Pamela Graham [email protected] or call 0141 465 7514


What has been the impact of the box? 

"Shannon’s Box really helped me when I moved to Sunnyside, I loved the nightlight made me feel like someone else knew what l was going through and l wasn’t as alone."

A young person who received Shannon’s Box

"Shannon absolutely nailed it. Everything about this box has supported us building relationships with young people in our care.”

A residential worker who implemented Shannon’s Box

"I felt as if the whole world was against me until I started engaging with carers. I realised they was really just trying to help me through a traumatic experience and it made me feel so much better. Try not to be angry with the carers because it's not their fault this has happened to you. They are just trying to make this experience less painful for you. The carers really helped me through a lot of things that went wrong in my life so don't be afraid to speak to them. I hope this letter helps you in some way and wish you all the best for your future. I hope it brings you a lot of happiness.”

An extract from Shannon's letter

What's next?

To help us keep improving this project, we're interested in hearing the views of young people receiving the box as well as the people caring for them. If you have any views on the content and design of the box, please contact Pamela.