Festive events are being staged by us to help care leavers embrace the Christmas spirit.

Care leavers who are now living independently are gathering for Christmas dinners in Scarborough, Selby, Northallerton and Harrogate. Despite a halt to the festivities in 2020, these dinners have become a cherished seasonal tradition, providing an opportunity for care leavers to come together, share a meal and celebrate the holiday season.

Young people attending the care leavers lunch in Northallerton reflected on the experience, one care leaver said: “I get a lot out of spending time with other care leavers.”

Another added: “I enjoy these so much – they’ve become part of my Christmas now.”

Corporate director of children and young people’s service Stuart Carlton said: “Our care leavers have had a brilliant time with a great atmosphere. We offer key support throughout the year, but at Christmas time it’s vital to show our young people they are not alone and that our support is always on hand.”

To amplify the message, our official Christmas card this year will focus on the true meaning of family, supporting a Christmas card design competition. The winning design will become our official Christmas card.

Fostering North Yorkshire is offering a £500 golden hello to all newly approved foster carers between now and December 31. There are a range of opportunities for anyone interested in fostering, including short break fostering or planned regular sleepovers which provide options for adults who work full-time.

Foster carers receive full training and support to help turn young lives around. There are also tax-free payments and allowances for every night a carer fosters.

Find more information about fostering online or call 01609 534654 to speak to a member of the team.