Throughout November, a series of events and activities will bring together young people, staff, partners, and elected members to showcase and celebrate the successes of care-experienced young people. County Hall will be illuminated blue as a visible symbol of Somerset’s commitment to children and young people who have experienced care.
This year’s theme, 'From Experience to Empowerment', recognises the strength, determination, and ambition of care-experienced young people and highlights the many ways they are building positive futures. Across Somerset, these young people are securing apprenticeships, full-time employment, progressing in education, and living independently.
This year alone, care leavers have secured jobs with employers including Hinkley Point and Müller, completed college courses, passed driving tests, and volunteered in their communities. One notable achievement includes a young person purchasing their first home at 20 years old.
“"Every achievement has a story behind it, and many of our young people have overcome challenges that most of us can only imagine. That’s why National Care Leavers Month is so important. It gives us the opportunity to celebrate their successes, recognise how far they have come, and show just how proud we are as a corporate parent, of everything they are achieving."
Councillor Shearer added that care-experienced young people have incredible potential, and with the right encouragement, opportunities, and support, they can achieve amazing things. The month aims to recognise these achievements and ensure their voices are heard.
Key events include Somerset Council’s Wear It Blue Day on 10 November, encouraging staff, partners, and supporters to wear blue. Coffee and cake events and donation collections are also planned to help support local young people and increase understanding of the challenges they may face.
The month will also spotlight Stepping Stones, Somerset’s Supported Lodgings scheme for young people aged 18 to 21. The scheme provides a safe home environment for young people to develop essential life skills for independent adulthood, including practical skills like cooking and cleaning, and building self-belief and emotional resilience.
Somerset Council is running a campaign throughout November to raise awareness of Stepping Stones and the impact of supportive adults and stable homes. Information on becoming a Stepping Stones host is available for those aged 23 or over with a spare room.
