Awards celebrate achievements of children and young people in care

Hundreds of children and young people in, or leaving, care in Wolverhampton were recognised for their resilience, hard work and achievements at an inspirational awards celebration.

The City of Wolverhampton Council’s annual I Awards, held at Grand Station, saw children and young people receive awards in recognition of their achievements in three categories - individual, intellectual and independence. There were also special awards for an inspirational child in care and inspirational care leaver who really showcase children and young people’s talents and potential.

Councillor Jacqui Coogan, Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Education, said: "The I Awards is one of the most important events of the year, allowing the council as their corporate parent to recognise and celebrate the achievements of our children and young people in care, and care leavers.

"We are extremely proud of each and every one of them. Many have not had the easiest start in life, and the I Awards are a great way of encouraging our children and young people to aim high, and reward them for their hard work.

"We heard some very uplifting stories of achievement which, coupled with the invaluable support from their foster parents, has enabled our children and young people to achieve in many different ways.

"We are very lucky to have so many dedicated individuals and families who have opened their homes to our children and young people as foster parents, and the I Awards was our chance to say thank you to them, too."

The event, attended by over 300 people including Director of Children’s Services Alison Hinds and the Mayor of Wolverhampton Councillor Linda Leach, also featured a djembe drum performance by young people from Wolverhampton Music Service and the Virtual School, a range of attractions including a chocolate fountain, sweet cart, face paints, photo booth and a balloon stall, and culminated with a disco.

Anyone who is interested in becoming a foster parent is invited to visit www.fosteringforwolverhampton.com or call the Fostering for Wolverhampton team on 01902 551133 to find out more.

Kieran Smith Mills, winner of the Inspirational Child in Care Award, with, left, the City of Wolverhampton Council's Director of Children's Services Alison Hinds and, right, Councillor Jacqui Coogan, Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Education.

Tsion Fekadu, runner-up in the Inspirational Child in Care Award category, with, left, the City of Wolverhampton Council's Director of Children's Services Alison Hinds and, right, Councillor Jacqui Coogan, Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Education.