Over 300 people attended a special event organised by Stockport Council to celebrate the fantastic achievements of children and young people in care and young carers.
A total of 138 young people were nominated to receive an award at the event held at the Town Hall.
The Mayor of Stockport, Councillor Wendy Meikle, supported by Mr Zip a contestant on Britain’s Got Talent, presented every child and young person with a certificate, and a gift token.
The annual event, which was held in February recognises achievements in nine different categories: Academic Progress, Coping with Change, Effort, Good Attendance, Young Carers, Interests and Talents, Participation and Co-operation, Post 16 Successes, and Success in Year 11 Studies.
Councillor Kevin Dowling, Stockport Council’s Executive Member for Children & Young People, who closed the event, said: “This event is always such an honour to attend and to be able to share in the successes of our looked after children, care leavers and young carers.
“I felt that everyone who attended the event enjoyed the celebration and it gave us an opportunity to acknowledge how well our children and young people are doing and show them how proud we are of their wonderful achievements.”
A DVD was shown showcasing talents of the young people nominated. It gave the young people the opportunity to say in their own words what the ceremony meant to them. Also members of Stockport’s Children in Care Council performed in a DVD giving their thoughts about what a ‘good review’ and a ‘bad review’ means from their experiences of being in care.
Those attending saw examples of work produced by young people who attended the event, and the reason for each young person’s nomination was displayed. Plus an inspirational speech from a young person who shared her experiences of being a young carer.
The event culminated in a fantastic performance by a Jessie J tribute act which got many of the guests up and dancing.