Stockport Council opens new hub for care leavers

Stockport Council has opened a new Leaving Care Hub designed as part of its commitment to improving support and opportunities for care leavers transitioning to independent adulthood.

The hub has been developed in collaboration with the Care Leavers Forum, whose insight was instrumental in making the Stockport space feel familiar, empowering, and meaningful. Every element has been designed to ensure young people feel safe, respected, and supported. Co-produced guidelines also help to make sure the space is inclusive and youth-led.

At the launch event, guests were welcomed with a guided tour of the space led by care leavers involved in the project’s design. Attendees explored the facilities, learned more about available services and drop-in sessions, and had the chance to meet the Leaving Care Team and partner organisations.

Cllr Wendy Meikle said:

“It was fantastic to officially open the new Leaving Care Hub. This space truly reflects the needs and voices of our young care leavers—a calm, welcoming place where they can feel comfortable, supported, and treated as individuals.

“The council is proud to stand beside its care-experienced young people as they take the next steps on their journey. I look forward to seeing how young people use the hub and make it their own.”

Care leaver Chereece, said:

“The hub is a safe haven for young people, somewhere to socialise and feel comfortable surrounded by our support and young people with lived experiences. This can be an escape for a lot of young people and benefit our mental health in many ways. The hub is more relatable and rewarding for young people as this was co-produced with us. It’s great to see everyone’s ideas come to life and create a space for everyone. Whether it’s for meetings, activities, therapy or even just somewhere to relax day to day. This is a unique space that will positively impact Stockport care experienced young people. It has been so heartfelt to feel heard and listened to but also shown through actions by creating this necessary space.”

Facilities available at the hub include a relaxed Welcome Area which is available Monday to Friday, staffed by a Duty Leaving Care Worker and Duty Manager who can offer immediate support and guidance. This welcoming environment features comfortable seating, a pool table, sensory toys, and information on local resources and opportunities.

Additionally, the building includes four specially designed rooms that support relaxation, meetings, one-to-one support, and therapeutic services tailored to the needs of care leavers.

The hub is part of Stockport’s broader plan to strengthen services for care leavers and improve long-term outcomes, ensuring they have the same opportunities to thrive as any other young person in the borough.