Spinnaker Tower lights up for National Care Leavers Week

Portsmouth's iconic landmark, Spinnaker Tower will light up the skies of the waterfront city on from 30 October to 2 November to celebrate National Care Leavers Week.

The Care Leaver Covenant is partnering with councils across England to light up well-known landmarks including the London Eye and Blackpool Tower, to show support for care-experienced young people.

The organisation is a national programme that supports young people who leave care aged 16-25 to live independently. Spinnaker Tower will be lit up in shades of blue which are the colours of the covenant logo.

Councillor Suzy Horton, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Children, Families and Education at Portsmouth City Council said:

"Lighting up Spinnaker Tower is Portsmouth's strongest statement yet and symbolic in our continued efforts to support children and young people in care.

"The council is committed to the principles of the Care Leaver Covenant, which supports young people through to independence. Our teams in children's social care support individuals to develop the confidence and resilience they need to face the challenges of everyday life in areas such employment, education and finance."

The aim of the Care Leaver Covenant is to provide additional support for those leaving care in five priority areas. This includes health and wellbeing, independent living, safety and security, employment and training and money matters.

Sarah Daly, director, children services at Portsmouth City Council said:

"We are proud of our young people in Portsmouth for everything they have achieved. The covenant is an excellent support programme which we are delighted to be part of, providing a framework for everything we do.

"We have also developed our own way of recognising and celebrating this group with a dedicated week. Social workers and personal advisors have come together with their young people to organise a range of activities that encourage individuals to form new friendships and learn new skills, which are underpinned by the values of the covenant."

Supporting your futures week takes place from 23 - 30 October with a range of fun and free activities beginning with a football match and ending with a party at Spinnaker Tower. For more information, visit www.strongerfutures.co.uk/yourfuture