Know Your Rights in Care Project | Dreamcatchers in Mayo

This update comes from EPIC’s Education Project Manager Tara Madden, who’s been working alongside young people in Mayo as part of the Know Your Rights in Care project.

Our second workshop in Mayo took place in the Foróige Hub on a warm, sunny August day. Five young people joined us, alongside our Creative Lead Dani, and two local workers.

The focus this time was on making dreamcatchers. We had circular frames, colourful tape, wool, beads, feathers and plenty of patience. First, everyone wrapped their frame in bright tape, covering the bare wood. Then came the trickier bit – weaving the webbing with wool, looping it over and back until the centre started to take shape. Beads were threaded onto strings and fixed to the bottom, followed by feathers tied in place so they hung freely.

While our hands were busy, the conversation flowed. We spoke about the origins of dreamcatchers in Native American culture – how they’re meant to keep away bad dreams and let the good ones through. We talked about our own dreams: the future, where we’d love to travel and he kind of jobs we’d like.

From there, the chat moved to foster carers and the difference they can make in a young person’s life. Young people shared their thoughts, and a conversation started about the care system itself and changes they’d like to see.

Because it was such a hot day, plenty of drinks were needed. We took a break for pizza in the park, making the most of the sunshine. Later, there was ice cream, a quick game of football, and a lot of laughter before everyone headed off!