Care Leavers

20.11.24

Warm Space

Don't forget, you can use the Hub as a 'warm space' given it's so cold at the moment. Drinks and snacks available throughout the day.

19.11.24

Free Transport in Merseyside for Care Leavers aged 18-21

There is a short delay to the implementation of our free travel passes. It is still happening and further information will be provided ASAP.

18.11.24

Hub Opening

Although we've been open a while, the 'official' opening of the new Hub is on Monday 25th November from 4-6pm. All are welcome to attend, but please let us know in advance so we can plan the catering.

2.11.24

Care Leaver Week

Many thanks to those who came Karting, to the Pizza and Pumpkins, the Cinema and to the motor show in Birmingham - hope you all had a great time :)

8.10.24

Care Leaver Week

Plans for the week include Karting, pizza and pumpkins, a trip to the cinema and a trip to Oulton Park. Spaces on the Karting trip are limited so please speak to your PA if you are interested. The exact date will be confirmed shortly.

8.10.24

Free Transport in Merseyside for Care Leavers aged 18-21

https://www.liverpoolcityregion-ca.gov.uk/news/mayor-announces-free-travel-to-support-liverpool-city-region-care-leavers

The start date is to be confirmed, but all St Helens care leavers will soon be able to access free transport across the Liverpool City region. Please speak to your PA for further details.

3.10.24

PA Interviews

Thanks to those who sat on today's panel - we hope you found it a rewarding experience. There are always ongoing opportunities so if you are interested in the future, please speak to your PA.

1.10.24

PA Interviews

We are interviewing for a new PA this coming Thursday. If you would like to sit on the panel, or just submit a question then please speak to your PA as soon as possible.

27.9.24

Official Hub Opening 25.11.24

On Monday Nov 25th, we'll be holding our official Hub opening from 4-6pm. Come along and meet the team, get involved in our activities and enjoy a free buffet. Please speak to your PA for further details.

10.7.24

Job opportunity

Here in St Helens we are recruiting a Care Experience Champion on a 2 year fixed term post. This is ringfenced for those with care experience and if you are a St Helens care leaver you will be guaranteed an interview if you meet the person specification.

All the details can be found at: https://sthjobs.azurewebsites.net

Please speak to your PA for further details and if you need help with the application then Rachael, our employment specialist will be able to advise you. Good luck!

4.7.24

It's election day!

If you have registered to vote, you have until 10pm tonight to go to the polling station. If you have a postal vote you have not sent in, this can be dropped off there. If you need help, please speak to your PA, or the duty PA before 5pm today.

4.7.24

Games Consoles

All the games consoles have now gone. If we are able to get any more, we'll let you know.

3.7.24

General Election Tomorrow

Don't forget to vote tomorrow if you have registered. If you don't know how, or you don't know where your polling station is then please speak to your PA and they will guide you through the process. Don't forget your photo ID.

1.7.24

We have moved!

The Futures Team are now based on the second floor of the Beacon. There is plenty of signs directing you where to go and there is lift or stair access. It's already nice to have seen a number of you there - everyone else, please feel free to pop in.

27.6.24

Your Hub is moving

Don't forget that from Monday 1 July, we will be based on the second floor at the Beacon, just above where we are now. Please pop in!

27.6.24

Games Consoles

We've been given several old games consoles - PS2's, Wii and Wii U's. If you would like one, please come to your Hub.

24.6.24

Life Skill Pocket Guides

The Local Offer has been updated with a number of pocket life skill guides. They can be accessed from this website, or your Social Worker or PA can provide you with laminated A6 size copies for you to keep.

20.6.24

General Election

The general election is 2 weeks today. If you haven't registered to vote, the deadline has now passed. If you have registered to vote you can either vote in person or by post. You must have registered for a postal vote by now though. To vote in person, you will need approved photo ID. If do do not have any, you can apply for a 'Voter Authority Certificate' using the following link www.gov.uk/apply-for-photo-id-voter-authority-certificate

This has to be done by 5pm on June 26th. If you are struggling, please speak to your PA. Don't lose your chance to have your say.

We would never suggest to you how to vote. This is entirely your choice. St Helens is divided up into 2 areas called constituencies - St Helens North and St Helens South and Whiston. If you live in St Helens, you will come under one of these areas. Your PA can provide a list of candidates if you don't know how to find it. The person with the most votes in each constituency, goes to Parliament to represent their area. If you live in a different area, your PA can help you find out what constituency you live in, and what your voting options are, but how you vote is for you to decide.

20.6.24

Your Hub is moving

From July, we will be moving upstairs to the second floor of the Beacon. Currently the space is being decorated and re-carpeted. We will have much more space to do activities there, so if you have any ideas, just let us know. Also, we'd like to display some of your artwork, so please let your PA know if you're interested and we can make arrangements to get you involved.

20.6.24

Craft Session

Thanks to those who came to the craft session yesterday - your artwork is amazing :)

19.6.24

Craft session today

Don't forget the craft session at your Hub this afternoon from 2pm. Just turn up and have fun!

18.6.24

URGENT - last chance to register to vote.

Voter registration for the general election closes just before midnight tonight. Nationally it is estimated that over 4 million first time voters haven't registered, so won't be able to vote. Don't be one of them! Your PA will have been in touch by now directly with you, but if you've forgotten or don't know how, please speak to them today, or come into the Hub and the duty PA can guide you through the process. We can find your NI number and there are IT facilities available.

12.6.24

Craft session at the Hub

The next craft session at the hub will be Wednesday 19 June at 2pm. No appointment needed, just turn up and discover your creative side :)

12.6.24

Last chance to register to vote.

Registration closes on June 18th. Your PA will have contacted you individually if you are entitled to vote, to encourage you to register. This is your last chance to have your say on July 4th. If you are struggling, your PA can guide you through the process. You will need approved photo ID to vote in person, or you can apply for a postal vote once registered.

11.6.24

Guaranteed Interviews for our Care Leavers

Just a reminder that if you are a St Helens care leaver who is applying for a job at St Helens MBC, we will guarantee an interview if you are able to meet the person specification. You will need a letter from our team to confirm that you are a St Helens care leaver. Please speak to your PA or our Education and Employment Advisor Rachael if you intend to apply.

6.6.24

The clock is ticking on your right to vote!

If you don't register soon you will lose your right to vote in the forthcoming general election. If you are unsure what to do, please speak to your PA as soon as possible. The process is really simple!

23.5.24

Register to Vote

As we have a general election on July 4th, now is the ideal time to register to vote. The process takes 5 minutes and can be done online at: www.gov.uk/register-to-vote

Your PA can help you with this if needed.

If you intend to vote in person, you must have valid photo ID or you will be turned away, but you can apply to vote by post or by proxy.

13.5.24

Craft Session at the Hub

The next craft session at the Hub will be on Wednesday 15th May at 2pm. No appointment needed, just turn up.

2.5.24

Free Data Packages

We now offer free data packages on 3, Vodaphone or O2. These are valid for 12 months. Please speak to your PA for further details and to arrange to collect one.

2.5.24

Elections Today

It's the election for the Police and Crime Commissioner and Liverpool City Region Combined Authority Mayor today. If you are registered to vote, please do so, but don't forget your photo ID or you will not be allowed to. If you are unsure about what to do, please speak to your PA.

24.4.24

Wigan Athletic Ticket

We have just 1 ticket left for Saturday's Wigan Athletic game at the DW. If you want it, please speak to your PA.

23.4.24

Employment, Education and Training Drop in Sessions

Rachael our new Employment, Education and Training adviser has started now. She will be holding drop in sessions every Wednesday at your Hub. No appointment needed, just call in. If you can't make a Wednesday, please speak to your PA and we'll arrange a time that is suitable for you.

15.4.24

Register to Vote

Just a reminder that you only have until last thing tomorrow to register to vote in the forthcoming elections. Please go to www.gov.uk/register-to-vote or see your PA for further information.

15.4.24

Eid Celebration

Many thanks to those who came to the Hub on Friday. Hope you all had a good time :)

12.4.24

Free tickets to watch Wigan Athletic

We have several pairs of tickets to watch Wigan v Bristol Rovers at the DW Stadium on Sat 27 April, kick off 12.30pm. You would need to be able to make your own way to and from the game. If you'd like to go please speak to your PA, but please only take a ticket if you intend to go, so they are not wasted.

12.4.24

Eid Celebration

Don't forget to join us today, 2pm at your Hub. All welcome.

8.4.24

Eid Celebrations

You are all most welcome to come and celebrate Eid with us at the hub on Friday 12th April from 2-4pm. Bus/train tickets can be provided if necessary. Please speak to your PA for further details.

3.4.24

Financial Entitlements

Our updated financial entitlements policy for 2024/5 is now on this website. Please use this as your reference to what you are entitled to. Other generic websites may not be as accurate. If in doubt, please speak to your PA.

15.3.24

Interview for Director of Children's Services

Many thanks to the group who came to the interviews for our new Director yesterday. I know you all found it interesting and empowering. If anyone is interested in further interview opportunities, then please speak to your PA as the chance does come up regularly.

13.3.24

Craft Session at the Hub

The next craft session at the hub will be on Wednesday 20th March at 2pm. No appointment needed, just turn up.

1.3.24

Further interview Opportunity

We will shortly be interviewing for a new Director of Children's Services. If you want to be on the panel, or would just like to submit a question then please speak to your PA. Interviews will take place on Thursday 14th March.

18.1.24

Interview Opportunity

We will be appointing a new Education, Employment and Training Advisor in the Futures Team. Interviews are planned for Wed 31 Jan. If you would like to be on the interview panel, or just to submit a question, then please speak to your PA.

16.1.24

The Hub

Given the extra cold weather we are experiencing at the minute, please remember you can use the Hub as a warm space. No appointments needed, just turn up :)

20.12.23

Christmas Arrangements

Many thanks to all those who came to the party yesterday. It was great to see so many of you in the Hub.

The Hub will close on Friday 22 December and reopen on Tuesday 2 January. There will still be a duty worker available at futuresteam@sthelens.gov.uk

For anyone who is going to be alone on Christmas day, the Wonderland Centre will be open, but they would need to know in advance if you would like Christmas dinner there.

19.12.23

Christmas Party

Don't forget the party today at the Hub. Please be there for 3.30pm. See you then!

8.12.23

Hub Closure

The Hub will be closed from Friday 22 December until Tuesday 2 January 2024. There will be a duty service on Wednesday 27, Thursday 28 and Friday 29 December.

7.12.23

Christmas Party

Don't forget the Christmas Party on Tuesday 19 December from 3.30 - 5.30 at the hub. All welcome.

7.12.23

We know Christmas can be a really tough time, but for anyone who may be spending the day alone, the Wonderland Community Centre will be open and are offering Christmas dinner to anyone who wants to come down. Please speak to your PA for further details, but this will need to be booked in advance so they know how many to cater for. As ever, please only book on if you will definitely be there.

6.12.23

Craft Session

The next craft session at the Hub will take place on Thu 13 Dec from 2-4. No appointment needed, just turn up for a Christmas themed session :)

20.11.23

Christmas Party

The Christmas party will take place at the Hub on Tuesday 19 December from 3.30 - 5.30. If you've any ideas for games/quizzes, bingo etc please speak to your PA.

7.11.23

Treatment Day at the Self Love Salon in St Helens - 8 November

Come and join us for a free treatment session at the Self Love Salon in St Helens tomorrow. Treatments available include:

Blow dry
Massage
Hair mask and head massage
Reiki
Dry trims also available for the men

Then feel free to join us for pizza and cake at the hub.

Various appointment times are available, but booking is essential. Please speak to your PA to book a slot and we'll do our best to fit you in. Please only book a slot if you are able to come as otherwise this could have been used by someone else.

27.10.23

From the Ground Comes Light at Saints on 4 Nov

We've been given a limited amount of tickets for the event at Saints on Saturday Nov 4th. Gates open at 5.15 and the event will finish at about 7.30. If you would like to go, please speak to your PA and the tickets can be collected from the Hub. Please only take one if you intend to go, so others don't miss out.

23.10.23

Well Being Packs

If you're passing by the hub this week, please call in and pick up a free well being pack :)

20.10.23

Halloween Craft Session 31.10.23 at 1.30pm

The next craft session at the Hub will be on 31 Oct at 1.30. No appointment needed, just turn up. Of course it will be Halloween themed :)

19.10.23

Free tickets - Wigan Athletic v Oxford, Tue 24th Oct, 7.45 KO

If anyone is interested in free tickets to see Wigan v Oxford at the DW next Tuesday, please click on the link below to apply for them. You'd need to be able to make your own way to and from Wigan, but there are buses and trains back to St Helens at the end of the game. There are 50 tickets, but if it is over subscribed, there will be a ballot to see who gets them.

Copy the link below into your browser:

https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=hESaCmfDcUmw63IlDCT5t3B0oF6L1qlGmgWp-gO7CNFURVRROUVPNEhCTzMwRzJUNEFSQUNXRTAzNC4u&web=1&wdLOR=c9BC83862-B3F5-4921-87DD-658E8D07C979

19.10.23

England v Tonga at Saints - Sun 22 Oct KO 2.30

The tickets have now gone for this game. Thanks for the interest.

18.10.23

Treatment Day at the Self Love Salon in St Helens

Come and join us for a free treatment session at the Self Love Salon in St Helens on Wed 8 November. Treatments available include:

Blow dry
Massage
Hair mask and head massage
Reiki
Dry trims also available for the men

Then feel free to join us for pizza and cake at the hub.

17.10.23

England v Tonga at Saints - Sun 22 Oct KO 2.30

We have some standing tickets for England v Tonga at Saints this coming Sunday. If you would like to go, please speak to your PA as soon as possible. There is no charge for these, but please only put your name forward if you will use them to prevent them being wasted.

10.10.23

Care Leaver Week

If you have any ideas for activities during care leaver week then please let your PA know.

10.10.23

PA Interviews

Many thanks for all the questions that have been submitted and to our care leavers for attending the interview panels. We hope you found this a positive experience and your views were much appreciated.

7.10.23

Children in Care and Care Leavers Celebration Event

Congratulations to all the nominees and the winners at our event today. We are proud of every one of you :)

To those who attended - we hoped you had a good time.

18.9.23

Interviews for Personal Advisors

We will shortly be interviewing for Personal Advisors to join the Futures Team. If you want to be on the interview panel or if you just want to submit a question to be asked, please let your PA know. Interviews are likely to take place in early October.

17.9.23

Donnington Race Day

If anyone is interested in coming to a race day at Donnington Park on Thursday this week, please speak to your PA. This will be a full day out, leaving about 8am.

13.9.23

Craft Session at the Hub

The next craft session will take place at 2pm tomorrow at the Hub. No appointment needed - just turn up.

20.7.23

Ofsted Meeting

Many thanks to all those who came yesterday. It was great to see so many of you there. Thanks also to those who agreed to speak to Ofsted by phone. They were most interested to hear all your views. As ever, if there is any way you think you can do things better, please come to one of our forums, call into the Hub or just speak to your PA. There are always opportunities to help shape the service, sit on interview panels, attend corporate parenting meetings etc.

17.7.23

Ofsted Meeting

If you would like the opportunity to come and speak to Ofsted in person, then please can you let your PA know ASAP to be added to the invite list. Equally if you would rather speak by phone, then that's fine - just let your PA know. The meeting is on Wednesday at the Hub from 4-5pm.

13.7.23

Money Saving Advice Session at the Perth Centre

There is a free financial advice session at the Perth Community Centre on Tuesday 18th July between 11am - 3pm. There will be support with budgeting and and they will be able to offer general advice, help and guidance to help manage your money. They are FCA registered for debt adjusting and debt counselling. You don't have to tell your PA you are going, but if you would like your PA to support you, please speak to them beforehand.

11.7.23

Ofsted Meeting

Hi all - currently Ofsted are in St Helens and are looking to speak to a group of care leavers. A meeting is planned for Wednesday 19th July from 4-5pm at the Hub. If you want to come along and speak to them, please let your PA know and we'll make arrangements for you to get there. If you aren't able to make it and still would like to speak to them, please tell your PA and we'll ask Ofsted to phone you individually.

4.7.23

Many thanks to those who attended the interviews this morning for the Principal Social Worker post. You all did really well :)

We will have interviews for an additional PA post coming soon and we'd really like more to get involved. Please speak to your PA.

3.7.23

Don't forget the adult community learning sessions resume at the hub from 1pm today. See you then!

30.6.23

Many thanks to those who came to the Hub yesterday to help prepare the interview questions. Our AD Paula was very impressed with your efforts, and was pleased to meet you all. We plan to do it again soon to prepare for the next Personal Adviser interviews so if you want to get involved, please let your PA know.

27.6.23

Forum at the Hub

The next forum at the hub will be tomorrow from 5pm. We will be focussing on setting interview questions for the Principal Social Worker post. Please just come along if you would like or if you can't make it, just let your PA know what you think we should ask.

26.7.23

There will be no Adult Community Learning session at the hub today. Back next week on Monday 3 July.

21.6.21

Cinema Trip Today

Don't forget the cinema trip today - to watch Flash. Meet at the hub for 2pm. See you there :)

13.6.21

Cinema Trip

We will be running a trip to Cineworld next Wednesday afternoon. If you'd like to come along, please speak to your PA. There's no charge, but please let us know in advance so we can plan tickets.

26.5.23

Hub closed next Monday

Hi all - just a reminder that your Hub will be closed on bank holiday Monday May 29th. It will reopen at 9am on May 30th.

24.5.23

Annual Contact

Over the next couple of weeks you should receive either an email or letter from us. This is nothing to worry about - it is just for those on 'Next Steps' who are over 21 and reminds you of our contact details should you wish to get in touch with us. If you do need our support then please contact us. It's also always nice just to hear how people are getting on!

23.5.23

Sexual Health and Relationship Advice Drop in Sessions:

This is a confidential service, monthly at the hub. No appointment needed.

Sessions for the rest of the year are on:

14 June

12 July

16 Aug

13 Sept

18 Oct

15 Nov

All from 3-4pm.

23.5.23

Additional Cooking Sessions at the Hub

Given the success of the sessions at the Hub, we are able to run some more in the next few weeks if anyone is interested. No experience necessary. Just come along and have some fun whilst learning new skills.

23.5.23

Forum at the Hub

The next care leaver forum will take place on Thu 25 May from 5pm at the hub. As ever, no appointment necessary but please come along and share any ideas about how we can do things differently. There are opportunities available to get involved with upcoming interviews and also on corporate parent forums.

23.5.23

LEAD programme

The session yesterday was very positive. You can still become involved if you would like to. There is no session on Mon 29 May due to the bank holiday. The next one will be Monday 5th June.

19.5.23

Celebration Event

We are planning a celebration even in the autumn for children in care and care leavers. Some of you may remember the last one just before the Covid lockdown. If you want to become involved in planning how this would look, please let us know!

19.5.23

LEAD programme

The next adult community learning session will take place on Monday 22 May at the hub from 1pm. All are welcome. These sessions are really informal and look at building skills and confidence. Please speak to your PA or Bex for further information.

18.5.23

Care Leaver Forum

17.5.23

Opportunity to take part in interviews

On Wednesday June 17th, we will be running an interview panel to recruit to the Principal Social Worker position. If you would be interested in taking part, please speak to your PA. No experience is necessary and you will have the chance to ask the questions you want to the candidates. This would look great on your CV! You would need to be available for the full day and be able to commit to attending.

16.5.23

Cooking Sessions at the Hub

The cooking sessions have now finished. Thanks to all who came and we hope you found it useful. We will run another session in the autumn so look out for further information.

15.5.23

LEAD programme

The first session went very well today. Thanks to those who came - it's not too late to come along. Please speak to your PA.

13.5.23

Eurovision

The trip to Eurovision was a great success. Many thanks for the donation of the tickets. As ever, if you have any ideas for activities please let us know!

5.5.23

Fishing Trip

If you would like to come on a full day fishing trip with Ste in the next couple of weeks, please let your PA know. As this will be a full day, a level of knowledge and competence would be required.

If you are a beginner, then Ste is happy to arrange a shorter trip whilst you learn the basics. Just let your PA know and Ste will contact you.

26.4.23

Survey now closed

Many thanks for the 78 responses meaning approximately 50% completed the survey. If you are interested in seeing the outcome, please speak to your PA and they will go through it with you. Thanks again :)

25.4.23

Forum at the Hub

Don't forget the next care leaver forum at the Hub tomorrow from 5pm. No appointment needed. Please come along and offer your views as to how we can do things differently to help support you better. Any comments and suggestions welcome as always :)

25.4.23

Hub Closure

The Hub will be closed on the following bank holidays:

Mon 1 May

Mon 8 May

Mon 29 May

We will be open as normal from 9-5 all other weekdays.

23.4.23

Public Warning System - Emergency Message on your phone

Just a reminder about the new public warning system test at 3pm today on your phones. It's nothing to worry about!

19.4.23

Forum at the Hub

The next leaving care forum will be on Wed 26 April from 5pm at the Hub. No appointment needed. Please come along and offer your views as to how we can do things differently to help support you better. Any comments and suggestions welcome as always :)

18.4.23

Futures Team Survey Final Reminder

Thanks to the 67 people who has responded so far. Your feedback is much appreciated. If you've not completed a survey yet, this is the final chance to take part. It'll take no more than 2 minutes to complete. There's no right or wrong answers - just be as honest as you can. All responses are anonymous.

Please just copy and paste the link into your browser:

https://smartsurvey.co.uk/s/MF55KS/?fbclid=PAAaYghqmxJERyBDKPYUxcKvoIoi3dtpHVrP7tLI9eK5BqPukgMv7dneZ36N8

16.4.23

Public Warning System - Emergency Message on your phone

At 3pm on Sunday 23rd April, the government will test a new public warning system. You will receive a warning message and your phone will have sound and vibration, even if on silent. You will need to acknowledge the message before you can continue to use your phone.

This is a test only so nothing to be worried about!

12.4.23

Lazer Quest Activity

Don't forget about today's activity. We'll meet you at the Hub at 4pm. See you then!

12.4.23

Care Leaver Internship 2023

Applications will shortly open for the 2023 Care Leaver Internship for anyone aged between 18-30. For further details please speak to your PA or Bex. The internship scheme aims to give care leavers opportunities to develop and enhance their work-based skills and be a launchpad for a successful working life, giving a voice in the heart of Government.

12.4.23

Eurovision Jobs Fair

There will be a jobs fair at the Town Hall on Tuesday 18 April from 11-1. Please speak to your PA or Bex for further details. There are jobs in security, stewarding, hospitality, retail, admin, cleaning and media/marketing.

11.4.23

Futures Team Survey Reminder

We would like your feedback on our service by completing a very brief survey. It'll take no more than 2 minutes to complete. There's no right or wrong answers - just be as honest as you can. All responses are anonymous.

Please just copy and paste the link into your browser:

https://smartsurvey.co.uk/s/MF55KS/?fbclid=PAAaYghqmxJERyBDKPYUxcKvoIoi3dtpHVrP7tLI9eK5BqPukgMv7dneZ36N8

11.4.23

Eurovision Final Dress Rehearsal Tickets

We have the opportunity to take a small group to the Eurovision final dress rehearsal on Saturday 13 May in Liverpool. Tickets are extremely limited for this event. If you would be interested in going, please speak to your PA and we will see how many would be interested, before deciding how best to allocate them. You would need to confirm you will be able to attend that day, given how scarce these tickets are.

7.4.23

Lazer Quest Activity

Our trip to Dark Star Lazer Quest in St Helens is planned for Wed 12 April at 4pm. If you would like to come please let your PA know.

5.4.23

Easter Hub Closure

The hub will close at 5pm on Thu 6 April and reopen on Tuesday 11 April at 9am.

2.4.23

Futures Team Survey

Please just copy and paste the link into your browser:

https://smartsurvey.co.uk/s/MF55KS/?fbclid=PAAaYghqmxJERyBDKPYUxcKvoIoi3dtpHVrP7tLI9eK5BqPukgMv7dneZ36N8

17.3.23

Oulton Park Race Day

If you are interested in a trip to watch the racing at Oulton Park on Wed 6th April, please speak to your PA and Ste will get in touch with you. It's a full day leaving at 8.30 am, not getting back until the evening. Given the length of time you'd be there, an interest in motor racing would be useful and if you did want to leave early, it's quite difficult to get back from Oulton Park on public transport.

15.3.23

Education, Training and Employment drop in sessions

If you need any advice regarding your options, Bex will be at the hub every Wednesday from 10.30 onwards. No appointment needed - just turn up. If there is any reason you can't attend the Hub, please speak to your PA to arrange an alternative.

14.3.23

Saints trip update

Tickets have now all gone for the Saints match on Friday 31 March. If you want to put your name on a standby list, please ask your PA. If you have been told you have tickets and can no longer come, please let your PA know ASAP so they can be used by someone else. Many thanks.

13.3.23

Trip to watch Saints

We are running a trip to watch Saints v Wakefield at 8pm on Friday 31 March. Tickets are limited, but if you are interested in going please speak to your PA. The tickets have been kindly donated by Communications Plus based in Rainford.

13.3.23

Mindfulness and Craft Sessions Return

Now we have moved to our new Hub, our mindfulness and craft sessions will return with Carole and Amy from 1.30 - 3.30 on Thursday 30th March. Come and take part in some free fun, engaging and therapeutic craft sessions in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere.

13.3.23

Education and Training Section updated

The education and training section of our local offer has been updated. If you would like to join our weekly vacancy list for jobs and apprenticeships, please let your PA or Bex know.

8.3.23

Corporate Parenting Opportunity

Our service is leading a group on the Corporate Parenting Forum specifically looking at Transition and Preparation for Adulthood.

The purpose of this is to:

To support the development of improvements in outcomes for children who are looked after and care leavers
The workstream will identify key priorities and set out its work plan, with measurable outcomes and report on progress.
The workstream should offer advice, support and challenge to secure sustainable improvement.

If you would be interested in getting involved in this group and feeding back progress to the Corporate Parenting Forum, please speak to your PA and we give you further details about what would be involved. You would need to commit to meeting monthly, with some independent preparation/research away from the meeting.

1.3.23

Warm Space at the Hub

Don't forget, you are welcome to use the new Hub as a warm space if you are struggling with your bills. It is open from 9-5, Monday to Friday. No appointments needed, just turn up. There is WiFi available and we have laptops that can be used if needed. Hot drinks are available and limited catering facilities.

27.2.23

New Hub

Our new care leaver hub is based at the Beacon, College St, St Helens WA10 1TF. We will be on the ground floor, immediately to the left as you enter the building. For anyone who has been before, we are based in the old coffee shop. If you haven't been, then the entrance is directly opposite the police station.

We are in the process of moving in furniture etc, but please feel free to pop in and say hello :)

20.2.23

Care Leaver Pledges

Our updated care leaver pledges are now on this local offer. The can be found under 'support for you/our promise to you'. As always, if you have any ideas how they can be improved, then please let us know.

7.2.23

Further Hub Update

It is with regret that our current Hub will close from Friday 10th February. We are currently looking at several alternatives and hope to be up and running as soon as possible. In the meantime, we will continue to have a duty service and if needed our duty worker will meet you in the town centre. You can still contact us by phone, email and Instagram. The efforts you went to in getting our current Hub up and running was much appreciated and we will ensure the next one is as successful as this.

31.1.23

Hub Update

You may be aware that MD are leaving their building where we are based. Unfortunately, that means that we will need to relocate also. We will remain where we are in the short term, but as from now we will only be able to open from 10-4. Please be assured that we are looking at a number of alternative venues and your PA will let you know anything further as it develops. We can also still be contacted by phone, email and Instagram as well as in person.

24.1.23

Warm Space at the Hub

Don't forget, you are welcome to use the Hub as a warm space if you are struggling with your bills. It is open from 9-5, Monday to Friday. No appointments needed, just turn up. There is WiFi available and we have laptops that can be used if needed. Hot drinks are available and limited catering facilities.

24.1.23

Corporate Parenting Opportunity

Our service is leading a group on the Corporate Parenting Forum specifically looking at Transition and Preparation for Adulthood.

The purpose of this is to:

To support the development of improvements in outcomes for children who are looked after and care leavers
The workstream will identify key priorities and set out its work plan, with measurable outcomes and report on progress.
The workstream should offer advice, support and challenge to secure sustainable improvement.

23.1.23

Education, Employment and Training drop in sessions

Some of you will have met Bex by now who is our new education, employment and training team member. Just a reminder that she will be at the Hub every Wednesday afternoon if you want to come along and get any advice about developing your career, writing a CV or just taking those first steps back into education. No appointment needed, just turn up. If Wednesday is a problem for you, please speak to your PA and we'll arrange an individual time for you to meet.

20.1.23

Forum at the Hub

Many thanks to those who came last night - some great ideas expressed about how we can all do things differently, with a focus on our pledges and the setting up home allowance.

13.1.23

Forum at the Hub

The next care leaver forum will take place on Thu 19 Jan from 5-6pm at the hub. No appointments necessary, just turn up. Issues we will be looking at are the pledges we make to our care leavers and the setting up home allowance, but any other discussions and ideas are welcome. If you can't make it and still want to have your say, please speak to your PA.

12.1.23

Education, Employment and Training drop in sessions

Every Wednesday afternoon, Bex - our new team member - will be holding drop in sessions at your Hub. No appointment needed, just come along for any advice on job searching, CV writing, courses to help build skills and confidence etc. If you can't make Wednesday's, please speak to your PA who will arrange a specific time with Bex to meet up and have a chat.

11.1.23

Man U v Liverpool U21's

We've just become aware that there are free tickets available at Leigh Sports Village, this Saturday at 5pm for Man U v Liverpool U21's. You'd need to make your own way and claim a ticket in advance at: https://www.leightickets.co.uk There's no tickets available on the gate.

10.1.23

Christmas Review

If you've got any feedback as to how we can improve the Christmas Hampers/Party to make it even better, please let your PA know or email us at futuresteamfeedback@sthelens.gov.uk

10.1.23

Community Pantry

There are now 5 community pantries across the town with more planned to open soon. You pay £4 and can get £20 worth of food, with a wide choice available to cater for all dietary requirements. If you are interested in registering please speak to your PA for further information.

3.1.22

Hub Reopening

Hi all - hope you all had a good Christmas. Just a reminder that the hub will reopen on Thu 5th Jan at 9am. Don't forget you can use it as a warm space, we have a clothing bank and you can access free toiletries if required. We look forward to welcoming you back :)

21.12.22

Christmas Meal

Many thanks to all those who came to the meal yesterday at the town hall. It was great to see so many of you there and we hope you had a good time. We will upload some photos to the Instagram account. Please note the dates the Hub is closed (see below) and the contact details, but we hope you all have a great Christmas. Best wishes from all at the Futures Team.

18.12.22

Hub Closure

Your Hub will be closed from Wed 21 Dec, reopening on Thu 5th Jan. We will still be running our duty service on normal working days - it is just the building that will be closed. We can be contacted as usual by phone, email or Instagram. On the bank holidays (26, 27 Dec and 2 Jan), any urgent enquiries would need to go through the Emergency Duty Team on 0345 050 0148.

16.12.22

Christmas Meal/Party 20 Dec, 2-4pm

The Care Leaver Christmas Party will take place at the Town Hall on Tuesday 20 Dec from 2-4pm. If you have not confirmed with your PA, please do so ASAP. Thanks!

9.12.22

Food Pantry

If you are finding it difficult with the current cost of living crisis, you can become a member of a Food Pantry. This is where you pay a £4 subscription, but can get £20:00 worth of food. It is not like a food bank which you would need voucher to access. If you are interested, please speak to your PA for further details.

9.12.22

The Cost of Living - hints and tips

Just a reminder that we've put together a short guide on things you can do in your home to help cut down on your household bills this winter. Everything there will save you money and none of them cost anything. You can find it under the 'Cost of Living/Post Coronavirus section. If you have any other suggestions then just let us know :)

9.12.22

Clothing Bank at the Hub

Just a reminder that we have a selection of good quality used clothes at the hub. Please come along and take anything you may need. If you have any good quality clothes you no longer want, please let us know!

9.12.22

Christmas Meal/Party 20 Dec, 2-4pm

The Care Leaver Christmas Party will take place at the Town Hall on Tuesday 20 Dec from 2-4pm. Your PA will be in touch with to invite you and to get your meal preferences. Save the date :)

8.12.22

Leaving Care Pledges

Over the last few months, we have been working on updating our pledges to our care leavers. If you would like to get involved in this and make any additional suggestions, please speak to your PA.

7.12.22

Christmas Video

If you want to become involved in the Futures Team Christmas video, please speak to your PA about when to come down to the hub :)

6.12.22

Warm Space at the Hub

With the cold spell we are currently experiencing, your Hub is a warm space where you can come, relax, keep warm and save on your bills. Feel free to drop in at any point.

17.11.22

Setting Up Home Allowance

Some of our care leavers are putting together a proposal to request an increase to the setting up home allowance. If you would like to be part of this or if you have any ideas/suggestions, then please speak to you PA.

16.11.22

Christmas Meal/Party 20 Dec, 2-4pm

The Care Leaver Christmas Party will take place at the Town Hall on Tuesday 20 Dec from 2-4pm. Your PA will be in touch with to invite you and to get your meal preferences. Save the date :)

3.11.22

£400 energy discount from the government - Energy Bills Support Scheme

By now, if you live independently, you should have received your first £66 help towards your energy bills. However, if you have a traditional prepayment meter you may have been sent a voucher by text, email or post. Please ensure you check your mail and don't lose out on this. Vouchers must be redeemed within 90 days of issue. If in doubt, please speak to your energy provider or ask your PA for help. You should receive £66 in October and November and £67 in December, January, February and March.

2.11.22

From the Ground Comes Light - Fire and Light Spectacular

We have several places left for the show at Saints on Saturday evening. If you would like to come, please speak to your PA.

19.10.22

Arts and Crafts

The next art and craft session at the hub with Carole and Amy will take place at the Hub on Friday 21 October from 11.30 - 1.30. No need to book and no experience needed. All welcome :)

17.10.22

Rugby League World Cup - Urgent

Tonga v Papua New Guinea at Saints, Tue 18 Oct, 7.30 KO

We have been given an extremely limited number of tickets for the Tonga v Papua New Guinea men's rugby league world cup group game at Saints tomorrow evening. If you would like a pair of tickets, please speak to your PA urgently. You would need to be able to collect them from the hub before 5pm tomorrow and be able to make your own way to and from the game.

14.10.22

Opportunity for Interviews

If you would like to be part of a young person's interview panel to help select an education adviser for our team, please let your PA know. Interviews are proposed to take place on 3 Nov in the afternoon, subject to change. This is a great opportunity and always looks good on a CV.

10.10.22

Forum at the Hub this Thursday

Don't forget the Forum at the hub this Thursday from 5pm. All welcome - no appointment needed. Come and have your say about how we can do things differently for all our care leavers.

7.10.22

Escape Room - Liverpool

On Tuesday 18 October we are running a trip to an Escape Room in Liverpool. Places are very limited and allocated on a first come first served basis. We will be leaving from the hub at 2.45pm and will be back in St Helens about 7pm. There is no charge and transport will be provided. If you would like to come please speak to your PA as soon as possible, but please make sure you are available and can attend at those times as any 'no shows' are unfair on those who may miss out once the trip is fully booked.

30.9.22

The Cost of Living - hints and tips

We've put together a short guide on things you can do in your home to help cut down on your household bills this winter. Everything there will save you money and none of them cost anything. You can find it under the 'Cost of Living/Post Coronavirus section. If you have any other suggestions then just let us know :)

15.9.22

Clothing Bank at the Hub

We have a selection of good quality used clothes at the hub. Please come along and take anything you may need. If you have any good quality clothes you no longer want, please let us know!

15.9.22

Arts and Crafts

Don't forget the arts and craft session at the hub tomorrow from 11.30. All welcome!

15.9.22

Fishing Trip

If you are interested in joining Ste on a fishing trip, please let your PA know. This would be a full day - very early to very late at Acton Bridge in Cheshire. Given the length of time we would be there, some knowledge and interest in fishing would be beneficial. Date and time TBC.

13.9.22

Bank Holiday on 19.9.22

As next Monday is now a bank holiday due to the Queen's funeral, MD Creatives and therefore the hub will be closed for the day. We will reopen as normal on Tuesday 20th.

13.9.22

Arts and Crafts

The next art and craft session at the hub with Carole and Amy will take place at the hub on Friday 16 September from 11.30 - 1.30. No need to book and no experience needed. All welcome :)

12.9.22

Corporate Parenting Meeting

If you would like to attend the meeting this evening, please speak to us as soon as possible - it is your opportunity to speak to elected members and senior managers about your experiences and how things can be done differently!

12.8.22

Oulton Park Race Day

There are very limited spaces to attend a race day at Oulton Park with Ste on Friday 26 August. It would mean a very early start, but we will provide breakfast! You would spend a full day there, but have access to the pit lane and wider circuit. Some interest/knowledge of motorsport would obviously be beneficial to help you get the most out of the day. If you are interested, please let us know.

12.8.22

Art and Craft Session at the Hub

The next art and craft session at the Hub will be on Friday 16th September, with Carole and Amy from 11.30 - 1.30pm. Please just come along, or ask your PA if you need any further information.

12.8.22

Corporate Parenting Meeting

The next corporate parenting meeting will be held on Monday 12 September, from 4-6pm at the town hall. If you would like to attend to have your views represented, please speak to your PA. Feedback from those who have been before has been most positive.

20.7.22

Forum at the Hub tomorrow

Don't forget the Forum at the hub tomorrow from 5pm. All welcome - no appointment needed. Come and have your say about how we can do things differently for all our care leavers.

19.7.22

Interview Panel

Many thanks to those who sat on the interview panel today for the Deputy Director position. Your input was much appreciated and we'll let you know who was the successful candidate.

6.7.22

Deputy Director of Children's Services Interviews

We have a young person's panel to help select the Deputy Director of Children's Services on July 19th. We have been working on interview questions, so if you have a question you would like asking in the interview, please let your PA know. We would need to get the questions ready by July 12th.

5.7.22

Sexual Health Advice

Our sexual health advice worker from St Helens and Knowsley Hospitals Contraception and Sexual Health Service will be in the hub tomorrow morning and the first Wednesday of every month. No appointment needed and you can speak in confidence. For advice outside of these times, please speak to your PA who can help you access services if needed.

5.7.22

Mindfulness Session at your Hub.

The first mindfulness session will take place at the Hub on Friday 15th July from 12 onwards aimed at promoting positive mental wellbeing. For further information, please speak to your PA.

5.7.22

The next Jobs Fair is 18th July 11am – 1pm

St Helens Chamber Jobs and Apprenticeship Fair

Whatever stage of your career you’re at, come along to our Jobs Fair and meet local employers with vacancies to fill!

The National Careers Service team will be on hand to help you apply for local vacancies, and we can help you add to your CV with our range of FREE short courses.

https://www.sthelenschamber.com/startingpoint/jobs-fair-st-helens-chamber/

1.7.22

Christmas Hampers/Gifts

Although it's many months away, the Christmas preparation has already started. Many thanks to Innovate Services for their very generous donation towards our Christmas plans. Innovate's vision is to enable brighter futures for all vulnerable children and families they support and they will certainly make a difference to us this coming Christmas. Their website is: www.innovateservices.com

29.6.22

Lifeskills Development Programme

There are still opportunities for a few volunteers to offer their opinions and suggestions as to how the life skills programme can be improved before it goes live and to help look for any bugs in the process. If you want to get involved, please speak to your PA or email futuresteam@sthelens.gov.uk

Many thanks :)

If you have already volunteered, please access the trial system using the following link:

Life Skills Programme

28.6.22

The Vision

Well done to our care leavers who were part of the launch of The Vision today. You were absolutely amazing!

23.6.22

Care Leaver Forum tonight

Don't forget the care leaver forum tonight from 5 at the hub. All welcome. Just call in!

22.6.22

Lifeskills Development Programme

We are almost ready to go with the lifeskills development programme. We need a few volunteers to offer their opinions and suggestions as to how it can be improved before it goes live and to help look for any bugs in the process. If you want to get involved, please speak to your PA or email futuresteam@sthelens.gov.uk

Many thanks :)

If you have already volunteered, please access the trial system using the following link:

Life Skills Programme

21.6.22

Ofsted Consultation

If you want to help shape the way Ofsted inspect leaving care services then please see the link below:

Ofsted launches consultation on care leavers inspection judgement - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

20.6.22

Name our starter flats

Some of you may know that we will be having some starter flats later in the year, but we need a name! If you've got any suggestions please let your PA know, or email futuresteamfeedback@sthelens.gov.uk

Use you imaginations, but it should perhaps be St Helens related if possible.

18.7.22

Deputy Director of Children's Services Interviews

On Tuesday July 19th, we will be holding a young person's interview panel to help select the new Deputy Director of Children's Services. If you would like to be part of this panel then please let your PA know. If you don't want to be on the panel, but have an interview question you would like asked, please let them know also. The group who attended the Director interviews this week found it a great experience!

15.6.22

Care Leaver Forum

Want to make any suggestions as to how we can do things better? Got any good ideas about things we can do or other services we can work with? Please let us know. We are holding our next forum on Thursday 23 June from 5-6.30 at your hub on Barrow Street. Feel free to pop in. All suggestions welcome!

If you can't attend in person, please speak to your PA or you can submit any feedback/comments/suggestions at futuresteamfeedback@sthelens.gov.uk

14.6.22

Director of Children's Services Interviews

Many thanks to those who sat on the young people's panel for the selection process to recruit our new Director of Children's Services. Your input to this process is much appreciated.

There will be other interview panels coming up so if you are interested, or just have any questions you think should be asked, then please let your PA know.

26.5.22

Engagement/Feedback Session

Thanks to those who came tonight. Your comments are as valued as ever!

25.5.22

Engagement/Feedback Session

Don't forget the engagement/feedback session the Hub tomorrow evening - Thu 26 May from 5pm. No appointment needed - just turn up :)

23.5.22

Corporate Parenting Board

Many thanks to the 3 who came to speak to speak to the Corporate Parenting Board tonight. They were all very impressed with what you said to them and we hop you found it an empowering, positive event.

If anyone else wants to get involved at future events, please let your PA know!

20.5.22

Corporate Parenting Board

On Monday 23 May, we have a group of Care Leavers speaking to the 'Corporate Parenting Forum'. If you have any issues you would like raising then please speak to your PA and we will ensure your voice is heard!

18.5.22

Management Interviews

Do you want to be part of the interview process to help select senior managers within children's social care?

No experience is necessary, but you must be able to commit to a full day (date TBC in June). You will sit on a panel of care leavers and ask the questions that matter to you. You can even write the questions! Please speak to your PA for further details.

10.5.22

Feedback

Want to make any suggestions as to how we can do things better? Got any good ideas about things we can do or other services we can work with? Please let us know. We are holding a forum on Thu 26 May from 5-6.30 at your hub on Barrow Street. Feel free to pop in. All suggestions welcome!

If you can't attend in person, please speak to your PA or you can submit any feedback/comments/suggestions at futuresteamfeedback@sthelens.gov.uk

10.5.22

Rounders Team

One of our care leavers is interested in setting up a local rounders team. If you would be interested in joining then please let your PA know.

1.5.22

Come and visit your Hub!

Your hub in the town centre is now open. It is based at MD Creatives, Barrow Street WA10 1RX. A duty PA will be based there during normal office hours. Please feel free to call in.

18.4.22

Retro Gaming

Thanks to all those who came to the recent retro gaming activity. We hope you enjoyed it! Any other suggestions for activities are always welcome :)

News