Children and young people who have been under the care of Swindon Borough Council came together to mark their achievements at two special events.
Swindon’s Children in Care Awards recognised the hard work and success of hundreds of young people in a range of categories.
Awards were presented for school achievement, involvement in community projects, creativity and art, and overcoming challenges in their personal lives.
In order to make sure all children and young people were able to take part, two events were recently held. A party for younger children was held at Kidz About in West Swindon, while an ‘Oscars’ style event for young people and their carers was hosted at Blunsdon House Hotel.
In total, 270 children and young people were invited to collect their Achievement Awards. Nominations were received from a wide variety of people who work with children including social workers, independent reviewing officers, the Virtual School, nurses and personal advisors.
Dey Ricketts, who had previously been in care was the inspirational speaker at the event at Blunsdon House Hotel. After completing a Masters in Education, she is currently teaching and is working towards a PHD. Photographs from the evening were taken by a young person from the Leaving Care Team who is currently studying photography.
Swindon’s business community also threw their weight behind both events with the Literacy Trust donating books and Blunsdon House Hotel, Intel, Hills Group Limited, Dynamatic Ltd UK and Rock Star Climbing Centre all providing sponsorship.
In addition, Curtis Entertainment, Shooting Star Celebrations and Highworth Emporium and Kidz About also helped make the events extra special.
The Dick Lovett Foundation also recognised young people’s achievements and provided a VIP Invitation Day experience at their Ferrari dealership for the five young people who won the Outstanding Categories.
The foundation also provided vouchers to young people who acted as ambassadors of education.
Councillor Mary Martin, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, said: “Many of the children and young people in our care have experienced extremely difficult periods in their lives so these awards are a great way of showing them the support and encouragement they deserve.
“It was also a chance for us to sit down and speak to carers and children in a relaxed environment. We heard some moving stories at both events of how our young people have overcome adversity and we want them to continue to thrive and to aim as high as they possibly can in all levels of their lives.
“I would also like to take this opportunity to thanks all our sponsors who made both events possible.”
If you would like to find out more about the Children in Care achievement awards and how to become a sponsor please email: [email protected]
