The efforts and achievements of more than 370 Somerset children and young people in care have been celebrated at this year’s Annual Achievement Awards . 

The event was organised by the Somerset Council Engagement and Participation team and hosted by members of the Somerset in Care and Leaving Care Council (SiCC & SLCC) who welcomed guests, made speeches and presented awards.  

Children and young people were recognised for their efforts through nominations from social workers, leaving care workers, schools, and other Children’s Services professionals. 

Children and young people nominated for awards were split across two age groups, juniors aged 0-12 years, and seniors ages 13+, and were commended across five categories: 

• Personal Achievement – showing resilience or personal development. 

• Positive Pastimes – doing well in sport, music, social, arts or leisure activities. 

• Education, Training and Employment – Virtual School Award for achievements at school, college, in training or work. 

• Helping Others – helping or making a difference to other people. 

• Courage – being brave in dealing with personal illness or tragedy or helping and supporting those around them. 

Those attending the event, which took place at Taunton Rugby Club on Thursday 25th July, were treated to lots of fun activities, including magic and balloon animal making, Mocktails (alcohol free cocktails), a photo booth, music from a local young DJ and more. 

Louise Allen, author, artist and campaigner for children in the care system, was the inspirational speaker at the senior’s event.  

Louise said:  

“It is a joy to be here tonight, to look around at all you young people. You are me when I was young! You are my people. Always remember that you are more than what happened to you. You are in charge of your futures now. You can have great careers and great lives. I promise you; you will always be alright. You have skills you don’t even know you’ve got! Try not to compare yourself to anyone else. You are you – how amazing you all are and how amazing you will all be.” 

Nominations were anonymised and reviewed by a panel, who selected the top three and overall winner of each category. Winners and runners up, along with their guests, were invited to attend, collect their awards, and have their achievements celebrated. 

Workers and teachers were also commended at the event, with young people nominating the adults that work with them, with 70 nominations received across three categories.  

Award sponsors were the Nuffield Family Justice Observatory, who have worked closely with SiCC and SLCC this year on national guidelines on the Principles of Care. 

Councillor Heather Shearer, Somerset Council Lead Executive Member for Children, Families and Education, said

“At Somerset Council our aim is to ensure all children and young people in care are supported in their ambitions and are recognised for their achievements. It has been wonderful to celebrate all the talented, courageous and generous young people, teachers, professionals and carers here tonight. I am very proud of every person in this room – it has just been marvellous!” 

SiCC and SLCC is a way for children looked after or care leavers to have a voice about the things that matter to them and help shape the services that they use. Every young person who is in care or is a care leaver in Somerset automatically has the right to be a member of the Care Councils. To find out more about SiCC and SLCC visit www.somersetincarecouncils.org.uk or email: somersetincarecouncils@somerset.gov.uk