Ronnie Archer-Morgan talks children in care

Written by Elijah Cruz , Digital Communications Officer

Antiques Roadshow presenter and Action for Children celebrity ambassador, Ronnie Archer-Morgan, was at the launch of our children in care campaign, A Place to Call Home.

At the launch event, we asked Ronnie a few questions about his experience in care, the state of the UK care system and what he hopes to see change in the future.

1. Could you tell us a bit about your time in care?

I loved being in the National Children's Home*. I was in the one in Woking and then the one in Southport, and I felt loved and cared for, which I think is very important. I was supported in everything I did.

The carers really shaped all the values that I've carried with me throughout my life. I always want to support, help and just put a little love out there for Action for Children.

2. What would you say about the state of the UK care system today?

It's not the greatest and it needs a real revamp for want of a better way of putting it.

I was listening to the radio the other day and they were talking about the prison situation. It was well over 50% of British prisoners had some experience or connection with care.

That's not good. That really isn't good and tells a very bad story. Something is clearly failing and it needs to be repaired.

3. What would you hope to see change in the future with regards to the UK care system?

The root of any social problem is money. It really is. And I think taxpayers money is being misused and I think priorities are wrong.

A percentage of that money could improve social care and childcare. So I think it's all about reallocation of funds and prioritising.

It sounds corny but the children are our future. And why wouldn't you want to invest in your future?

Children in care are just as valuable as children in loving homes with their own parents. Children in care should not be made to feel like second or third class citizens because the care for them is underfunded.

4. On a personal level, what does being here today at A Place to Call Home mean to you?

Today means to me what every day means to me, an opportunity to improve the world, an opportunity to bring awareness to the issues facing those in care.

I think we're all so focused on our own private lives that we we find it hard to think about others and care for them. We don't really see the impact that not giving adequate care to people in care has upon our society.

We're supposed to be one of the wealthiest countries in the world, but we can't care for children that don't have solid home foundations? We should. They should be our priority.

5. What is one thing that you hope for people to take away from the campaign?

I think people should take away an awareness that children in care are just as valid and precious as any other children. They are the same as children in loving homes, and care homes should be made into loving homes.

And they should see children in care as advantaged, not disadvantaged.

I especially want people in care to hear how valued they are. They are qualified to help children all over the world that have to grow up in care.

*Action for Children was formerly known as the National Children's home.