This year's Care Experienced Week was from the 19th - 26th of October, with events happening all over Scotland, and it's fair to say the Staf team got well and truly stuck in!

Staf marked the occasion with an event in Stirling's Albert Halls, which was open to care experienced young people, our members, and others from across the sector. We aptly named the event 'Celebrating Connection' which consisted of a variety of activities, talks, workshops and DOGS! 

We kicked the day of with the CEO of Social Security Scotland - David Wallace - launching their corporate parent plan. The Why Not? Trust for care experienced young people then discussed their Right to Relationships Charter, which you can read and sign here.

We then launched into the days activities; we had Therpet dogs from the Canine Concern Trust, bookbinding and box making from Articulate, and some gorgeous holistic therapy from The Good Shepard Centre. 

The aim of the event was to create a relaxed space, where individuals could enjoy themselves and celebrate their successes. The feedback we received suggested we hit the mark, and we are really keen to host something similar in 2020. 

Here are a couple of snaps from the day along with a few snippets of feedback:

  

"The laid back atmosphere was fantastic for young people. The day was vibrant & fun, allowed them to be themselves. It was the most enjoyable gathering I've been to!"

"It was so relaxed and informal, everyone could chat and get as much from the day as possible. I hope every event is like this! I'll absolutely come again!"

"It was so nice to have such a mixture of people, it felt very informal and chilled."

    

As well as the massively successful Celebrating Connection, we also attend the Lifetime of Love Rally, organised by Who Cares? Scotland. The day was incredibly uplifting, and we are very proud to be part of the voice for Scotland's care experienced. 

Here's the team (featuring Remus the dog) ahead of the march...

                  

Lastly, we attended the Care Leavers Open Day organised by Glasgow City Council. Our very own Kenneth showed a film he had made (to a packed room) about his motivations and success, which was received with a roaring applause. Staf also had a stall at the event, and we manage to connect with lots of other fantastic organisations. 

Here's our stall...

                                             

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