A celebration event was held last night (28 October) for young people between the ages of 17-25 from across Cambridgeshire transitioning out of care.
It kick-starts a month of activities planned for National Care Leavers Month during November.
Care experienced young people were involved in planning the celebration event, which was held at The Junction in Cambridge.
Activities included a henna tattoo artist, gaming area, mocktail competition, hair braiding, raffle, a DJ, music, and refreshments.
Raffle prizes were kindly donated by The Junction, Cambridge United Football Club, Hotel Chocolat, The Lounges Restaurant, Tesco, Costa Coffee, Cafe Nero, Asda, Xtreme 360, Quilts 4 Care Leavers, Franco Manca, Fragrance Shop, Pizza Pilgrims, Brian Kotelo Mbekeni Foundation, The Lancaster Lounge.
Representatives from Inspire2Ignite were also present, to provide music and support guests at trying their hand at using the DJ mixing decks.
The event was attended by Councillor Jonny Edge, Vice Chair of the Council’s Children and Young People Committee. Also present was Councillor Simon Bywater who is a mentor for a care leaver.
The council’s Leaving Care Service works with many local and national organisations.
Cambridgeshire County Council has in place a Local Offer for care leavers, which provides services and support for those leaving care to ensure they are well looked after. This includes support from the council as well as external organisations.
During National Care Leavers Month in November, the council is organising a series of activities for care experienced young people to recognise their achievements and bring them together socially, including college visits, cooking workshops, community football and group walks.
“Councillor Jonny Edge, Vice Chair of the Children and Young People Committee at Cambridgeshire County Council said: “It was fantastic seeing so many of our Care Leavers enjoying themselves together last night as a community that understand each other. The challenges they have already been through in their lives is such a great achievement and they deserve every opportunity to have some fun together, celebrate and be recognised for this.”
Councillor Edna Murphy, Chair of the Children and Young People Committee at Cambridgeshire County Council, said: “The inaugural National Care Leavers Month is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the achievements of all our young people leaving care. We want to recognise the strength and resilience they have demonstrated to get to this point, as they embark on the next stage in their lives. We will continue to ensure they receive the best support they need to thrive and realise their amazing potential. I am delighted that we are organising so many activities in Cambridgeshire during the month – including last night’s celebration event at The Junction.”
