The month raises awareness of the unique opportunities and challenges faced by care-experienced young people, whether that's moving into their own home for the first time, building strong support networks, or making important decisions about education, training, and employment.
This year's theme, "Leading the Way: From Experience to Empowerment", highlights the strength, resilience and achievements of care-experienced young people and the valuable contributions they make to their communities.
A range of events and activities will take place across Westmorland and Furness throughout November, including games nights, yoga sessions, regional football tournaments, DJ Set, a film night, and Christmas wreath making. Our Small Steps, Big Ambitions event on 25 November will bring together care leavers and local partners to explore career pathways, training opportunities, and future aspirations.
Westmorland and Furness Council will also take part in the National Light Up, illuminating some council buildings in blue alongside landmarks across the country, from the London Eye to Blackpool Tower, as a visible show of pride, solidarity, and support for care leavers.
Councillor Janet Battye, Westmorland and Furness Council Cabinet Member for Children's Services, said: "Care-experienced young people show incredible resilience, determination and strength, and Care Leavers Month gives us an opportunity to celebrate their achievements and raise awareness of their experiences.
"Throughout November, we will be shining a light on their stories, promoting understanding across our communities and reaffirming our commitment to ensuring every care-experienced young person feels valued, supported and empowered to achieve their goals.
"We're proud of the innovative work taking place across Westmorland and Furness all year round to support care leavers, and this national campaign provides a chance to showcase that work and the positive difference it is making in young people's lives. We are also working toward Care Leavers becoming a protected characteristic within the council. This helps ensure the experiences of care leavers are considered in the decisions we make and the services we provide."