Some of North Somerset’s care leavers were given a ‘once-in-a-lifetime’ opportunity to take the helm during sailing trips, at a time when the council is considering how its role as corporate parents will change.
North Somerset Council chairman David Jolley wanted to give teenagers in care, and those who have just left, the chance to try something new.
Using the chairman’s fund and sponsorship and donations from businesses, 10 care leavers aged 17-22 took part in a sailing trip in Plymouth and Scotland.
It was the first time such an endeavour had been organised in North Somerset before, and the care leavers were responsible for cooking, cleaning and sailing the boats.
Cllr Jolley said: “The aim was to widen horizons, make new friends and build self-esteem. I’m relieved because everyone came back and thought it was brilliant. It is encouraging us to try to do more.”
The council’s role in looking after care leavers is changing, as it will be responsible for them until they are 25 years old. Previously, its responsibilities only continued if the person was in higher education.
The council has 225 care leavers at present.
Social worker Liza Zakheim said: “We set the trips up as a challenge and to give them a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
“This is just the start. We are trying to get more and more opportunities for young people to do things they have never done.”
The authority runs a children in care council, where the young people can have their say on what should be offered and provides a room for all children in care to spend time in.
Some care leavers are also involved in apprenticeships with the council.
Liza said: “The opportunity to socialise and have different life experiences is really important.
“If we don’t do it as corporate parents, who will do it for our care leavers?”
The sailing trip has been hailed as a success, with the care leavers making new friends and one invited to join the crew as a volunteer on future trips.
The support from businesses was key to ensuring the sailing trips could go ahead, and council officers hope the generosity will continue.
Cllr Jolley s next plans to provide trips and opportunities for some of the children in care.
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