ssex County Council. Direction for the research included the following: • This is the child’s story and journey, and records are ‘crucial’ in telling this • Language is important; we have to hold the child in mind as we write to or about them • Accessing records is a journey and not limited to a one-off event • Individuals accessing their records should be able to recognise their own voice and agency • Children and young people should be able to easily contribute to their records • Redaction can have a negative impact and make files ineligible • Photos, videos and voice notes are all important in building a sense of identity 74 5. It’s My Life Festival It’s My Life provides a unique opportunity for children and young people receiving services from Children and Families to come together from across Essex and share their experiences. Children and young people have an opportunity to meet new friends, try challenging activities, share experiences and contribute their views on social care services and how they might be improved. It’s My Life is an established and celebrated five-day event, now in its 25th year, developed and delivered by the Involvement Service alongside members of the Essex Children in Care Council at Danbury Outdoors Centre outside Chelmsford. Click here to watch a short film about It’s My Life. Essex County Council, as co-parent, has pledged to ensure that children in care and care leavers receive the very best chance possible to go on and lead fulfilled and successful adult lives. The Essex Co-Parenting Pledge, ‘We Care About You’ was developed with children and young people and sets out their priorities. Research discussions at It’s My Life are a crucial component in evaluating co-parenting responsibilities. The Missing Chapters project team facilitated