Moray teenager praised for positive influence by care charity
A care-experienced Moray 19-year-old has been celebrated for her “incredibly positive” influence on other young people.
Moray teenager Angel has been named as this year’s Inspirational Young Woman of Influence by charity Action for Children.
She was celebrated at an awards ceremony in Glasgow for her strength, determination and for using her own journey to spread awareness for care-experienced young people.
Angel entered the care system following “difficulties in her home life” and moved into an Action for Children’s residential home in Moray three years ago.
The service, which has been operating for the last 20 years, provides a “safe and loving” home for around four young people at any one time.
After Angel moved in, an Action for Children spokesperson said, she quickly become an “integral part of home life” and despite challenges was “incredibly positive, earning the love and respect of both staff and her peers”.
She was also praised for her tireless work raising awareness for the care experienced community as a member of the Moray Champions Board.
"As someone with lived experience of the care system, I’m a strong believer in young people having a voice,” Angel said.
“Too often young people who come into care feel as though no one is listening and they don't matter.
"I hope, when I move on from Action for Children, I can continue to make a difference to the next generation of young people coming into care."
Children’s Services Manager Martin Robertson supported Angel during her time at the home.
“Over the past year and a half, I have seen a huge change in the young woman standing on stage who is proud of her life journey and identity – it’s a truly special moment,” he said.
“While it’s not always been a straight road, I’ve witnessed the strength and determination which Angel has shown to being positive about the future and finding her own identity.
“I couldn’t be prouder.”
