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Thurrock’s looked-after children celebrated for their inspiring achievements

Some of Thurrock’s most remarkable looked-after children and young people were recognised for their inspiring achievements during a special awards ceremony.

The Children Looked After Celebration Event was held at Blackshots Civic Hall on Friday 12 June, bringing together young people, carers, councillors and council staff.

The event celebrated the determination, resilience and talent shown by children and young people in Thurrock’s care, with awards presented across a range of categories. Young people were nominated by their social workers in recognition of their individual journeys and accomplishments.

Awards were presented in the following categories:

  • Courage, Resilience & Overcoming Adversity Award
  • Personal Growth & Positive Change Award
  • Kindness, Compassion & Community Impact Award
  • Creative Expression & Talent Award
  • Educational & Learning Achievement Award
  • Sporting Achievement Award

The evening was a memorable occasion for all who attended, shining a spotlight on the achievements of young people who continue to overcome challenges and reach their full potential.

Cllr Milena Bingley, Cabinet Member for Education, Skills and Children’s Services, said: 
“It was a privilege to attend Children Looked After Celebration Event, which gave the council the opportunity to recognise and applaud the achievements of our looked-after children and young people.

“Every young person celebrated at this event should be incredibly proud. Their determination, resilience and positivity in the face of challenges continues to inspire us all. Thurrock is proud of each and every one of you and everything you have achieved.

“I would also like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the sponsors who helped make the event possible. Their generous support ensured it was a truly special and memorable evening for the children and young people.”

Sponsors included:

  • Strides Childcare Services
  • c2c
  • EmJen Estate Agents
  • Crown Fit Out
  • DP World
  • Grays Service Station
  • Tapps Event Sound & Lighting
  • Impulse Leisure
  • Creative Joy Photography
  • The Laughing Pear Catering
  • Awacky Jackei
  • Blast-Off Balloons UK
  • Silver Birch Care Holdings Limited

Thurrock continues to seek more local foster carers to support children and young people across the borough. Anyone interested in finding out more about fostering can visit www.thurrock.gov.uk/fostering

Councillors, including Cllr Milena Bingley, Cabinet Member for Education, Skills and Children’s Services, and Cllr Bill Cook, Mayor of Thurrock, with staff from Thurrock Council at the celebration