November is Somerset Council have proudly joined landmarks across the UK, including the London Eye and Blackpool Tower, to proudly show our support for care leavers across the country by lighting up County Hall as part of National Care Leavers Month.
National Care Leavers Month is a month-long awareness and celebration event that highlights the resilience and determination of care-experienced young people and celebrates their achievements.
The theme of National Care Leavers Month this year is “Rising as me: Overcoming challenges, transforming, and finding your identity.” Young people who have been in care often face trauma and hardship in childhood, and many deal with disadvantage and discrimination as adults. Despite all of these challenges, they achieve amazing things – and we are incredibly proud of them.
The Somerset in Care and Leaving Care Councils (SiCC & SLCC)
SiCC & SLCC have achieved a huge amount for children in care and care leavers over the past year, from running and hosting a care leavers conference, helped shape the Judges Toolkit, took part in a youth mentoring project, sat on interview panels, were interviewed by the BBC, to helping at a Homes and Horizons visit, helping create the ‘What is a Child Looked After Review’ and one member even met the Prime Minister!!
Throughout the month across social media we have showcased the achievements of members of SiCC & SLCC, but you can find out more about the work of SiCC & SLCC and how care experienced young people can join the group by visiting their website.
Supporting care leavers beyond National Care Leavers Month
You can make a difference to Somerset’s young people by:
- Become a Stepping Stones host
Somerset Council supports care leavers and young people who are unable to live with their birth families through its Supported Lodgings Stepping Stones scheme. Stepping Stones hosts provide 18 to 21-year-olds with a stable home and the opportunity to develop the practical skills and emotional stability they need to thrive, as they transition into adulthood and independent living. Hosts receive weekly payments, full training and ongoing support. If you’re interested in becoming a Stepping Stones host, click here to learn more or email the team at
SteppingStonesTeamLeavingCare@somerset.gov.uk - Offering work opportunities, apprenticeships or work experience to those with care experience. Visit www.somerset-ebp.co.uk/imagine-the-possibilities to learn more or contact Imelda Leetch at imelda.leetch@somerset.gov.uk
- Volunteer with Route One Advocacy
Volunteering as an Independent Visitor or Advocate provides a child in care with a trusted adult who listens, supports, and champions their voice. You’ll help them build confidence and enjoy new experiences while offering additional stability outside of their care arrangements. It’s a rewarding and flexible role with full training and support. Click here to learn more about Route One Advocacy. - Offering space for young people to meet with each other or for appointments.
- Welcoming and supporting children and young people with care experience as part of your football, rugby, netball team etc.