Ewood event celebrates achievements of children growing up in care

The annual Celebration of Achievement for Children in our Care and Care Leavers took place at Ewood Park last week.

The event was opened by Blackburn with Darwen Chief Executive Denise Park, with a special message from a former Blackburn student and celebrity presenter AJ Odudu. Denise Park, Chief Executive at Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council said:

As corporate parents the Council has special responsibilities to care experienced children and young people. We consider the event a hugely important date in our calendar and want to congratulate all our young people. Well done, we are all very proud of you!

Children and young people in care and care leavers who attended were nominated for awards by their carers, schools and Children’s Services staff in the categories of, academic achievement/progress, attendance, behaviour, sport, arts, resilience and determination and making a positive contribution.

In addition, there were a number of special awards for those who have particularly excelled in these areas. Those now at University and young people who have gained apprenticeships were also celebrated.

The Premier Suite was packed with children and young people in care and care leavers, foster carers, parents and school staff.

The Deputy Mayor, Strategic Director of Children’s Services and Deputy Chief Executive were also in attendance as well as officers from the wider council and the Children’s Services Department.

Executive Board Member for Children’s Services Cllr Julie Gunn who attended the event, said:

I look forward to this uplifting and inspirational event every year. It is always great to see our young people all working incredibly hard to overcome life’s challenges and make a positive future for themselves.

Rover the Dog  (courtesy of Blackburn Rovers Community Trust), popped in to see everyone and the special guest for the evening was singer/The Voice contestant Kiki Deville who presented the awards and provided some moving words and great entertainment.

Some very special performances from three of the young people included a clarinet recital, and two songs. One of the young people now at University also performed her own song.

The John Bury Trust kindly sponsored one of the special awards and funded the vouchers for the special award winners with OSMIS Education Limited sponsoring all of the other special award trophies. All of our award winners received a certificate and gift voucher.