Liverpool City Council to host conference in support of young people leaving care

Liverpool City Council is inviting businesses and individuals across the city to join an inspiring conference.

Celebrating Care Leavers: Making a Difference Together is aimed at supporting young people transitioning out of care.

The council, supported by Lord Mayor of Liverpool, Cllr Richard Kemp, is calling on organisations to join a movement that empowers young people who have overcome extraordinary challenges.

The business community has a pivotal role in providing opportunities and support to care-experienced young people, and participation is crucial to making a lasting impact.

Liverpool is home to over 700 care leavers aged 18 to 25, with many experiencing barriers. The conference is a unique chance to celebrate their achievements, understand their challenges, and explore how the business community can offer real, lasting support.

What to expect 

During the event young people leaving care will take part in powerful performances and share their personal journeys of resilience and their visions for the future. 

Attendees will also hear from key leaders including Cllr Liz Parsons, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, and Jenny Turnross, Director of Children and Young People’s Services, who will discuss positive developments and specific needs of care leavers.

They will also learn about successful initiatives led by organisations such as John Lewis, Everton in the Community, and Liverpool FC Foundation.

Getting Involved

This conference is not just about discussion, it’s about action. The council’s aim is to foster a collaborative environment where ideas are shared, best practices are exchanged, and innovative solutions are developed.

On the day, businesses are encouraged to pledge their support for the young people leaving care in any way they can. Whether it’s a follow-up discussion with the service, connecting care leavers with mentors, offering access to enriching experiences like tickets to cultural, sporting, and community events, or facilitating work experience opportunities. Every contribution helps to broaden horizons and foster a sense of belonging.

Lord Mayor of Liverpool, Cllr Richard Kemp, said: 

“I am proud to be hosting this event in partnership with Liverpool City Council, CCLA, an investment manager for charities, faith-based organisations and local authorities, and with active involvement from care leavers themselves.  

“We want to bring together key stakeholders to listen and address the unique challenges these young people face. Supporting care leavers is a cause deeply important to me, and I have dedicated my term to this vital work.

“As Lord Mayor I have created a £100,000-a-year fund for three years to support care leavers. This fund, made possible by generous contributions from the Lancashire and Merseyside Community Foundation, is providing small grants to care leavers.

“I will continue to focus on raising awareness and creating opportunities to empower care leavers. I invite all our partners and the community to join me in making a lasting impact on their lives.”

Jenny Turnross, Director of Liverpool City Council’s Children and Young People’s Services, said: 

“We’re thrilled that the Lord Mayor has chosen to support care leavers across the city during his year in office and we’re excited to be supporting this really important event.

“We envision a community where care leavers are fully supported, empowered, and able to thrive. We encourage our partners and local businesses to join us in making a meaningful difference in their journey towards independence and success.”

Places to the conference are limited and need to be booked in advance.

Please confirm attendance to Celebrating Care Leavers: Making a Difference Together by filling in this short form.

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