National Care Leavers’ Week (NCLW) 2024, a nationwide initiative running from October 28th to November 3rd, is a powerful testament to the resilience and determination of care-experienced individuals. This year’s theme, “All of Us, We Are One,” chosen by care-experienced individuals themselves, underscores the importance of unity, empathy, and shared experiences within this community.
Why NCLW Matters
NCLW serves as a vital platform to:
- Amplify Care-Experienced Voices: Giving a platform to care-experienced individuals to share their stories, challenges, and triumphs.
- Raise Awareness: Educating the public, policymakers, and professionals about the unique needs and experiences of care leavers.
- Advocate for Change: Driving systemic change and advocating for policies that improve the lives of care-experienced young people.
- Celebrate Achievements: Recognising the remarkable achievements of care leavers and inspiring future generations.
A Week of Action and Impact
A wide range of events and activities will be taking place across the UK to mark NCLW 2024. Key highlights include:
- Empowering the Workforce: Workshops and training sessions will equip care-experienced young people with essential skills for employment and further education, such as CV writing, interview techniques, and building confidence.
- Navigating Higher Education: Support and guidance will be provided to help care leavers access and succeed in higher education, including mentoring programs, university visits, and financial advice.
- Advocating for Rights and Entitlements: Initiatives will focus on ensuring that care leavers understand their rights and have access to the support they need, such as workshops on housing, benefits, and mental health services.
- Fostering Inclusive Language: Training sessions will raise awareness of the importance of using inclusive and respectful language when working with care-experienced individuals, helping to reduce stigma and discrimination.
Beyond the Week
While NCLW 2024 is a significant annual event, the challenges and aspirations of care-experienced individuals extend far beyond a single week. Ongoing support, advocacy, and policy change are essential to ensure that care leavers have the opportunities and support they deserve.
The Power of Community
By embracing the theme of “All of Us, We Are One,” NCLW 2024 aims to foster a stronger sense of community among care-experienced individuals and their supporters. Through collective action and advocacy, we can work towards a future where all care leavers have the opportunity to reach their full potential.
Taking Action
To get involved in NCLW 2024 and support care-experienced individuals, consider the following:
- Attend Events: Participate in local and national NCLW events, workshops, and webinars.
- Donate: Support organisations that work with care-experienced young people.
- Volunteer: Offer your time and skills to volunteer with local charities and organisations.
- Advocate: Use your voice to raise awareness of the issues facing care leavers and advocate for policy change.
- Connect: Build relationships with care-experienced individuals and listen to their stories.
Let’s come together to support and celebrate care-experienced individuals during NCLW 2024 and beyond.
For more information and to get involved, please visit the official NCLW website or connect with organisations such as Become, The Fostering Network, or the National Youth Advocacy Service (NYAS).