During this week’s Corporate Parenting Week, Milton Keynes Council is recognising and celebrating the achievements of children in care. The Council is a legal ‘corporate parent’ to more than 400 children and young people whose challenging home circumstances mean they need extra support.
Throughout the week, the Council has been running activities and events for young people in care including a football competition, nature walk, ice-skating and an ‘online escape room’.
Cllr Zoe Nolan, Cabinet Member for Children and Families said: “We couldn’t be prouder of the young people in our care; I see young people with so much potential and our incredibly dedicated team work very hard to give them the right support and opportunities. This week, we’ve heard directly from children about the positive impact our social workers have made, alongside the amazing carers, schools, businesses and other organisations that are part of MK’s supportive community.”
One of the ways the Council supports children in care is by helping young people’s voices be heard. Care leaver, 19-year-old Charlie Rossi has been appointed Chair for Raise Your Voice - a group of children in care who are working with the Council to develop the opportunities available. Charlie will now lead Raise Your Voice meetings as well as attending MK’s Corporate Parenting Panel to represent the views of local children in care and care leavers.
The Council is asking local organisations to come forward if they can help to support young people in care. This may take the form of apprenticeship schemes or guaranteed interviews for any care leavers. Please contact Richard Lee for more information or call him on 07881 353675.