Celebration Event to Recognise Achievements of Reading’s Children in Care

READING children and young people in care enjoyed a special celebration event to recognise their achievements over the last year.

Children and young people aged from three to 18 received certificates to mark their success in one of the four areas of Bravery, Acts of Kindness, Thriving or Dedication. The young people, their carers and guests heard how individuals were thriving in school or home life and heard some heart-warming stories about acts of kindness towards others. Young people were also recognised for their dedication and effort towards education, sport and other hobbies and interests. The event at the Madejski Stadium during half-term included a host of activities for the young guests, including a special appearance by Reading Football Club mascot Kingsley the lion, dressing up for photos with My Photo Booth Experience Ltd and a host of craft activities laid on by the Reading Fostering team. Local entertainers Edge of Music, All Puffed Out and EEK the Clown also gave up their time to keep the appreciative youngsters amused. Reading businesses and organisations, including the management team and shops at Broad Street Mall, Phoenix Security Services and Reading Football Club, supported the event by generously donating fantastic raffle prizes for children and young people to win on the day. Madejski Stadium kindly provided the venue free of charge and laid on a tasty buffet for the children, young people and their carers to enjoy.

Cllr Jan Gavin, Reading’s Lead Councillor for Children’s Services, said:

“I would like to congratulate all the children and young people in care who have been recognised for their achievements in the last year. “It is a testament to the hard work of our foster carers, social care workers and the children and young people themselves that there are so many great examples of effort and success. “I would also like to thank everyone involved in the celebration event for making it such a fun and cheerful occasion for all those who took part.”