05/04/04 - Kids in care celebrate achievements

56 children and young people `looked after’ by Cumbria County Council met to celebrate their achievements last week.  The achievements were diverse and some completely amazing. One four year old little girl celebrated learning to walk after doctors had said that she might never be able to do so.  Several of the young people were celebrating between 7 and 10 GCSE at A-C grades, learning to pass their driving tests, playing in sports teams and performing in school plays and concerts.  Some of the younger children had learnt to swim and ride their bikes and one young man chose to celebrate his adoption.

The children from all over Cumbria live in foster care, in residential units and some were their foster brothers and sisters.  They were joined by 33 carers, members of staff, Paul Moore the new Head of Children's Services and County Councillor Anne Parker Chair of the Members Children's Forum. Commenting on the event Anne Parker says,

“A number of young people including Rebecca Reynolds from Kendal helped to organise this fantastic event.  Rebecca worked closely with Lindy Ketchen, the Children's Rights Officer to plan the content and details of the day. We all thoroughly enjoyed the day, which included a drumming, and percussion session led by local freelance musicians Shelley Barlow and Sam Dale. 

The day’s highlight was the release of over 100 balloons each having a label with a personal achievement attached to it.  Cumbria County Council is committed to supporting vulnerable children and their carers.  I am delighted that we were able to hold this celebration of achievement.  The day was such a success the children want it to be held every year and are already planning for the next celebration.” 

So far the balloons have landed in Wetherby, Scarborough and Newcastle under Lyme.  If you find a red or gold balloon, please ring the Children's Rights Officer on 01539 773352 to let her know its final destination.