We’re providing festive support for vulnerable young people
Kirklees care leavers will enjoy a well-deserved festive treat thanks to the council and other organisations in the district.
Care leavers are young people aged 18 to 25 who have been in care and are being supported by social workers and personal advisors to move into adulthood.
For some, there’s a risk of spending Christmas alone while other people are celebrating with family – this can be isolating at an especially difficult time.
So, along with our partners, we are stepping in with a Christmas lunch event, bringing care leavers together for food and drink, fun and friendship, on Christmas Day itself.
Funding has been provided by local charity One Community Foundation, while there has been further support from the Gold from the Stone Foundation and donations from Waitrose. Huddersfield Town FC will be giving away match tickets.
The Huddersfield Town Foundation has also played a key role in ensuring care leavers receive vital support.
Cllr Viv Kendrick, Cabinet member for Children, said:
“Young people who are leaving care and moving into a more independent life can often face barriers and challenges.
“All year we support our care leavers in a huge variety of ways, but we’re also determined that no care leaver will feel alone at Christmas.
“Our thanks go to Huddersfield Town Foundation for helping to secure funding for the Christmas lunch, and to all the other organisations and volunteers who are making this fantastic event possible.
“By inviting young people to such a special gathering, we are tackling loneliness, creating happy memories and making a difference to those who need our support.”
Siobhan Atkinson, Chief Executive Officer of Huddersfield Town Foundation, said:
“HTF are delighted to have worked with Kirklees Council to develop a provision for care leavers on Christmas Day and I’m particularly thrilled that One Community Foundation in Kirklees have been so supportive with the approval of our funding application.
“Huddersfield Town Foundation are committed to tackling inequalities and this is a further extension of our work to help make the festive period a more enjoyable time for children and care leavers.”