Celebrating our young people in care and care leavers
Children and young people who have triumphed over adversity were honoured at a ceremony earlier this month.
More than 120 children and young people, both in care and care leavers, were nominated by nurses, teaching staff, carers, social care and youth services staff and more to be recognised for how far they have come.
The Children Looked After and Care Leavers Success and Achievement awards event, held at the Floral Pavilion, celebrated the young people with more than 200 people in attendance.
All of the nominees who were able to attend were presented with a certificate and a copy of the nomination they had received from Wirral Council’s Assistant Director of Children and Families, Kerry Mehta, and the Vice-Chair of the Wirral’s Children, Young People and Education Committee, Cllr Chris Carubia.
Cllr Carubia said:
Children Looked After, and those who have left the care system, can face many challenges, often at a very young age. Managing to succeed, often in difficult circumstances, is a massive achievement and one that must be celebrated - loudly.
There was so much positivity in the room at this event. Some of the young people also took the opportunity to come on stage and read out the nomination they had received, which was incredibly moving.
Seeing young people, nominated by the people who have supported them, receive that acknowledgement from a trusted caregiver was something really special.
The event was supported with live music, singing from two children in care and one young person even took to the stage to tell some jokes.
The party continued with pizza, chips, sandwiches and drinks provided, while face-painting was also available for those who wanted it. A magic mirror photo booth, popcorn and candy machines were a hit too.
Speaking of the event, attendees said:
It was an amazing night
What a fabulous evening we had at the awards ceremony in New Brighton
Just wanted to say I really enjoyed the awards yesterday. There must have been so much time and thought and planning that went into it. I was on a table with two little children, and they were beside themselves with it all. It was such a lovely vibe
It was such a special night. I also overheard some young people and foster carers when they were leaving the building and they were all buzzing
