More than 570 children looked after and care experienced young people were recognised and celebrated at Somerset Council’s annual Celebrating Care and Achievement event.
Held at Wellsprings Leisure Centre in Taunton, the event brought together children, young people, carers, families and professionals for an afternoon dedicated to recognising the determination, resilience, talent and achievements of young people across Somerset.
Previously known as the Annual Achievement Awards, the event was refreshed this year to place a greater focus on celebrating all children looked after and care experienced young people. Attendance was also opened up so that more young people, families, carers and supporters could come together and share in the celebrations.
The day featured a range of activities, including face painting, a silent disco, balloon modelling, a photo booth, planting activities and opportunities to meet local organisations including Route1 Advocacy and the RSPCA. Guests also enjoyed ice cream and other treats throughout the afternoon.
Children and young people were nominated by social workers, foster carers, leaving care workers, schools and other Children’s Services professionals, with this year’s event receiving a record number of nominations.
Each nomination highlighted the progress, determination, kindness and personal achievements of Somerset’s children and young people.
A panel reviewed anonymised nominations and selected winners across a range of categories. Alongside celebrating children and young people, the event also recognised teachers, workers and carers who have made a positive difference, with young people given the opportunity to nominate adults who have supported them.
The event was hosted by members of Somerset’s in Care Council (SiCC) and Somerset’s Leaving Care Council (SLCC), alongside Somerset Council’s Engagement and Participation Team who helped plan and deliver the celebrations.
Leah, a proud member of SiCC and SLCC, helped to organise this year’s event. Leah said:
“We really care about each other, and today is about all of us. We celebrate everyone’s achievements and progress, and I hope everyone attending goes away feeling happy and proud.’’
Organisers expressed their thanks to the many people and organisations who supported the event through planning, volunteering, sponsorship and nominations, helping to create a memorable day celebrating the achievements of Somerset’s children looked after and care experienced young people.
Paul Mitchell, Senior Partnership Engagement Officer at Somerset Council, has also been heavily involved in the organisation of the event. Paul said:
“SiCC and SLCC do this voluntarily, and they work really hard to deliver a special day for our young people. They continue to inspire us, as do all of the remarkable children and young people recognised today.’’
Councillor Heather Shearer, Somerset Council’s Lead Member for Children, Families and Education, said:
“This event is one of the highlights of the year. It is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the achievements, talents and resilience of Somerset’s children looked after and care experienced young people.’’
“Every nomination tells a story of determination, courage and personal growth. We are incredibly proud of all the young people commended today, and grateful to the carers, families, schools, workers and supporters who help them achieve their potential.”
Foster carers play a vital role in helping many young people thrive, and with over 650 children in care in Somerset, more foster carers are urgently needed to provide nurturing homes.
If you’d like to learn more about supporting a vulnerable young person as a foster carer, visit www.fosteringinsomerset.org.uk. Foster carers need to be aged 21 or over with a spare room in their home. Full training and ongoing support is provided, including weekly payments to support carers financially.
For more information about Somerset’s in Care Council and Leaving Care Council, visit www.somersetincarecouncils.org.uk.
To find out more about engagement and participation opportunities for children and young people in Somerset, email the Engagement and Participation Team at participationmailbox@somerset.gov.uk or visit Somerset Young People’s voice.
