A young Redcar mother-of-three has shared her story of growing up in care for Care Leavers Week.

Zoe, 24, was from Middlesbrough but was a child in care at Redcar and Cleveland Council.

Care Leavers Week recognises the achievements of care leavers along with the opportunities and support that is available to them.

Zoe is still in regular contact with her former foster carer. They come and see her and her three daughters every month.

The 24-year-old said: "I’ve always been in and out of care, but it wasn’t until I was 13 when I came in and I was placed with a great foster carer who got me to go to school and then college and progress on to university.

"It’s been quite a positive journey for me from teenagerhood."

Zoe achieved a Level 3 Health and Social Care qualification and carried on to do social work.

She has taken a step back from her career to care for her three daughters but now she has got back into work with a job at Amazon.

Zoe added: "When the opportunity came up, I jumped at the chance.

"I always see myself doing male-oriented roles like working in a warehouse, I also quite like cars.

"I want to show my three girls that women can do anything.

"We can look after our families as well as have a job. I want to be an inspiration for them."

To celebrate all care leaver successes the council lit its buildings in the colour of the care leaver covenant.

Councillor Luke Myer, cabinet member for children, said: "It’s extremely heart-warming to see how the children in our care grow up to be independent, hardworking and responsible adults as well as great parents and role models for their children.

"I am so grateful to our amazing staff and foster carers for all the care and effort they put into supporting them reaching their full potential, both when they are children and when they become inspiring young people."

Get the latest news, sports, and entertainment delivered straight to your device, for just £3 for 3 months, click here

Most read

Venomous adder spotted at County Durham village location

Maya Chappell LIVE: Medical expert giving evidence

Bowes Museum accused of cancelling Christmas by MP

Could you help change the future of a vulnerable child or young person?

All foster carers receive financial compensation for their vital work.

Get in touch by calling 0800 917 7771 or email contact@fosterwithnortheast.org.uk.

Find out more at https://fostering.redcar-cleveland.gov.uk