A YOUNG Thurrock resident and former student at the gateway Academy has been successfully recruited to the National Children in Care Council (NCICC) for care leavers.

Asif Salarzai has been recruited to role of National Voice Ambassador within the council which supports children across England aged 11 to 25 leaving care.

Asif said: "Upon receiving an email about this great opportunity of being an ambassador for the National Children in Care Council, my first reaction was that this is something I want to partake in. Having been part of NCICC for almost three years I always wanted to take my causes and awareness nationally and this opportunity provided me the platform.

"Issues such as negative stereotypes about children in care and care leavers, a widening educational gap between children in care and their peers, and other difficulties and flaws in the care system need to be addressed and this is the best place for me to discuss them. I want to encourage and inspire others in care through my experiences and attainment. I want them to know that if I can do it, anyone can."

Cllr James Halden, cabinet member for children's social care, said "It's fantastic to see one of Thurrock's young people achieve such a position within the NCICC. I have every confidence that Asif will utilise his experiences, his education and strong drive for change to ensure the voices of those in care are heard and help drive forward national change.

"I wish Asif all the best for the future as he helps to inform positive decisions that will affect young people across the country for generations to come."