Wiltshire Council is celebrating a significant milestone, with 100 Independent Visitors now matched with children and young people who are in care or have experienced care. Each volunteer offers kindness, consistency and a reliable presence in a young person’s life.
The 100th volunteer to join the scheme is Sarah Atkinson, who has recently been matched with a young person. Both were able to attend a special celebration event together to mark the occasion.
“It was a lovely surprise to find out that my young person and I were both the 100th match and to attend the celebration event together,” said Sarah.
“We both enjoyed the cupcakes and she had fun creating pictures and having balloons. We are recently matched and it was nice to continue getting to know her. I look forward to our future visits together.”
Independent Visitors are volunteers who spend time with a child or young person in care and act as a trusted adult from outside the care system. Matches are made based on shared interests and the needs of the child or young person.
Once matched, volunteers usually meet the young person once a month for two to three hours. Support can continue for as long as the child or young person is in care or receiving care leaver support.
To mark the milestone, volunteers and young people came together for a celebration event at County Hall in Trowbridge, where they were joined by Cllr Jon Hubbard, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services.
“Reaching 100 Independent Visitors is a remarkable achievement – 100 trusted adults making a real difference in young lives,” said Cllr Hubbard. “We’re not just celebrating a number, but the hundreds of moments that have brought connection, encouragement and hope.
“These volunteers are more than visitors. They are role models, listeners and steady companions. They show up, care deeply and ask for nothing in return. We always need more volunteers. If you’re interested, please get in touch. And to all our current Independent Visitors – thank you. You’re changing lives.”
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