Some of Thurrock's most remarkable looked after children and young people have celebrated their inspiring achievements during a special awards ceremony.
The Children Looked After Celebration Event was hosted at Orsett Hall on Friday 13 June, for a red carpet and movie-themed evening.
The event was attended by some of the borough's most inspiring looked-after young people, as well as carers, councillors and council staff.
Cllr Vikki Hartstean, Cabinet Member for Children's Services, Education and Community Safety, and Cllr Sue Shinnick, Mayor of Thurrock, were also in attendance to help present the young people with their awards.
The children nominated for awards were put forward by their social workers, recognising their incredible journey and accomplishments.
Awards were given in various categories, including:
- Bravery and Courage Award - For showing strength during difficult times, facing fears, or handling change with courage.
- Creative Talent Award - For expressing themselves through art, music, drama, writing, or dance.
- Educational Achievement Award - For progress or excellence in school, learning, or college — regardless of starting point.
- Growing Through Change Award - About growing despite transitions and care placement moves.
- Kindness and Compassion Award - For consistently showing empathy, caring for others, and making a positive difference.
- Overcoming Adversity Award - For achieving goals or maintaining hope and strength despite personal challenges.
- Personal Growth Award - For emotional development, gaining confidence, or positive change in attitude or behaviour.
- Resilience and Determination Award - For bouncing back from setbacks and never giving up, no matter how tough things got.
- Sporting Achievement Award - For commitment, improvement, or talent in any physical activity or sport.
- Special Recognition Awards - For going above and beyond, recognizing unique contributions or achievements.
The heartwarming night was thoroughly enjoyed by everyone in attendance, with one of the award winners (aged 15) saying: "I had such a lovely night, it was such a special celebration and I'm so proud to have picked up not just one, but three awards!"
Jenny Josling, one of Thurrock's foster carers, was also in attendance and said: "I really have to say that it was such an incredible celebration that was put on. To be able to watch all the children receive their awards was a special moment.
"As a foster mum to two amazing children, who were lucky enough to receive an Outstanding Achievement award each, it was an absolute blessing to see the pride on their faces, it’s lifted our entire home to a whole different level, one where they can believe that trying hard does have rewards and they can achieve anything they put their minds to."
Cllr Vikki Hartstean, Cabinet Member for Children's Services, Education and Community Safety, said: "I was delighted to have attended the Children Looked After Celebration Event. Each and every one of Thurrock's looked-after young people is truly remarkable, and this evening was a special opportunity to celebrate some of their many achievements.
"I would like to say a big congratulations to all of our looked-after young people, who all work incredibly hard to overcome adversity and build positive outcomes for themselves. Thurrock is so proud of you and the resilience you have shown."
Thurrock has many children still in need of local carers. Residents interested in becoming foster carers can find more information at www.thurrock.gov.uk/fostering
