All of us: We are one. KCC celebrates National Care Leavers Week.

Coucillor Gary Cooke dedicating a tree to care leavers

A celebration of Kent’s care leavers took place outside Kent County Council on Friday 1st November, with live music and a tree dedication in Brenchley Gardens, Maidstone for National Care Leavers Week (Oct 28 – Nov 3).

All of us:We are one plaque dedicated to care leavers

The tree dedicated to the Hope for the future of all kent's young people.

Almost 200 care-experienced people voted for the theme for 2024, which was: All of Us, We are One.

National Care Leavers Week provides a crucial opportunity for the council, as corporate parents, and Kent’s care leavers to come together to acknowledge their successes and achievements, whilst also raising awareness of the ongoing challenges our young adults face and amplifying their voices as they move from care to living independently.

Bloco Fogo band drumming in Brenchley Park

Drumming band Bloco Fogo performing in Brenchley Gardens for the tree dedication.

Samba Reggae Funk drumming band, Bloco Fogo performed outside County Hall before their performance moved across the road into Brenchley Gardens where a tree dedication was hosted by Gary Cooke, Deputy Cabinet Member for Integrated Children’s Services. Special thanks went to Maidstone Borough Council for providing the tree and agreeing the location.

Gary Cooke

...This tree represents the council’s heartfelt continuing commitment to support our care experienced young people...

Gary Cooke Deputy Cabinet Member for Integrated Children's Services

Cllr. Cooke said: “It was an honour to perform this tree dedication in celebration of our care leavers. This tree represents the council’s heartfelt continuing commitment to support our care experienced young people, continue to listen to them and help them reach their full potential and succeed.”

“We are also hoping to engage with others to consider whether they can help to support a care leaver. Collectively, with local businesses and communities we can all help create opportunities for those leaving care.”

To find out more about services available to support care leavers, visit our care leavers local offer at Care leavers local offer - Kent County Council