THURROCK Council is marking Care Leavers Month 2026 by lighting up the Thameside Complex in Grays in blue throughout November to celebrate care experienced young people and raise awareness of the support available to care leavers across the borough.

This year's national theme, "Leading the Way: From Experience to Empowerment", recognises the strength, resilience and achievements of care experienced people and highlights the importance of ensuring their voices help shape the services and opportunities available to them.

The blue illumination forms part of Thurrock's commitment as a Corporate Parent and serves as a visible show of support for care leavers. It also helps raise awareness of the important role the whole community plays in supporting young people as they move towards independence and adulthood.

Throughout November, the council is hosting a range of activities and events designed to bring young people together, build confidence, develop new skills and celebrate personal achievements.

Activities planned for Thurrock's care leavers during the month include:

• Go karting experiences
• Virtual reality activities
• Celebration and social events
• Opportunities to connect with peers and professionals
• Activities that promote wellbeing, independence and personal development

Care Leavers Month also provides an opportunity for the council to review and strengthen its Local Offer, ensuring the support available to care experienced young people continues to reflect their needs, aspirations and feedback.

Cllr Milena Bingley, Cabinet Member for Education, Skills and Children's Services, said: "Care Leavers Month is an opportunity to celebrate the achievements, talents and resilience of care experienced young people across Thurrock.

"As a council, we take our role as Corporate Parent seriously and are committed to ensuring care leavers have the support, opportunities and encouragement they need to thrive.

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"Lighting the Thameside Complex in blue throughout November is a visible show of support for our care experienced young people and a reminder that they are valued members of our community. We look forward to celebrating their achievements during Care Leavers Month and continuing to listen to their views as we shape the support we provide."

Residents can find out more about support available to care leavers in Thurrock, including the council's Local Offer, by visiting https://www.thurrock.gov.uk/young-people-leaving-care/leaving-care