A group of young people have been recognised on a national stage after creating a award scheme for children that grew up in care.
The Our Voice Listen Up group, made up of children aged 10 to 17 that have grown up in residential children’s homes and foster care, have a say on issues affecting North East Lincolnshire.
Now the group has been recognised by A National Voice (ANV) – the national council for children in care and care leavers in England, delivered by Coram Voice. The awards seek to empower children and young people by giving them the skills and support to make real change on a national and local level. They work closely with children who have experienced growing up in care, to influence government and spearhead campaigns.
At the ANV Youth Voice Awards, held at the end of October, the local Our Voice Listen Up group were announced as winners of the Participation Award, principally for their part in proposing, planning and delivering the YOUnique Awards last year and pushing for it to become an annual celebration.
The groups hard work is now being shared nationally as an example of good work.
Whilst the awards were announced last month, the winning nomination was announced at this year’s YOUnique Awards, catching the group by surprise.
Councillor Margaret Cracknell, portfolio holder for children and education at North East Lincolnshire Council, said:
“It’s absolutely fantastic to see young people in our area being recognised on a national platform for the work that they are doing to raise aspirations, to raise awareness, and to celebrate the achievements of children who have grown up in care.
“Many of us take for granted the upbringing that we have had, but of course many of these young people will have had a very different experience. They will likely have grown up without having any relatives around them, they may not have been able to properly settle in a family environment.
“So to go through these experiences and then decide, with determination, to try to influence and improve the experiences of others in those circumstances is very commendable.
“This award is very well deserved. Congratulations to the group.”
Speaking shortly after announcing the award win, Director of Children’s Services, Ann-Marie Matson, said:
“This is absolutely well deserved. The young people involved in these awards have put their heart and soul into reviving what used to be the Looked After Children’s Awards, and revitalising it.
“They have worked closely with Council staff to make the awards an incredibly moving, memorable event in the calendar.
“Our children now look forward to the awards, and professionals, parents and carers look forward to making those nominations, to recognise the truly great achievements of our young people.”
To find out more about the nomination, visit: Amplify 2024 Participation Award Winners: Our Voice Listen Up, NE Lincs – Coram Voice
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