A care leaver from Warwickshire, who was also an unaccompanied asylum seeker, has been chosen to become a young people’s champion for the National Leaving Care Benchmarking Forum (NLCBF).Umar Tee...
A care leaver from Warwickshire, who was also an unaccompanied asylum seeker, has been chosen to become a young people’s champion for the National Leaving Care Benchmarking Forum (NLCBF).
Umar Teerab, an exceptional young man who overcame adversity to reach the UK, is a valued member of the team and a talented chef. He is now embarking on a new stage in his life and has been appointed as an apprentice in the Children in Care Service with Warwickshire County Council.
The Council is delighted that one of their care leavers has been selected to represent them at this important national gathering. John Coleman, Assistant Director Children, and Families said: “Huge congratulations to Umar, one of our remarkable young care leavers. His dedication and passion for this role were key factors in his success in what is a very competitive application process. This is further proof that with the right care and support young people can leave care and go on to achieve amazing things.”
The National Care Leaving Benchmarking Forum is a network of over 100 local authorities promoting the development of quality leaving care services together with partner organisations through a process of benchmarking. Champion members support each other by sharing experiences and developing policies and best practices to enrich outcomes for all care leavers. They also help to inform policy development at a national level by establishing effective working relationships with key government agencies.
Umar Teerab, Warwickshire care leaver and NLCBF champion said: “I cannot describe my feelings about this, I am the luckiest and happiest young care leaver in Warwickshire. I work hard day and night for those vulnerable young people who are looked after because I am one of them and I know how they feel. I am very excited to be representing Warwickshire County Council and I will continue to work hard to make things better for all care leavers.”
For more information about the National Leaving Care Benchmarking Forum visit: https://bit.ly/2KjwRhf