A call to anyone who has been through the care system in the Falkirk Council area is being issued this week to encourage young people and adults to attend a celebratory festival at Falkirk Town Hall on Wednesday 2 November.

More than 100 are expected to attend including young people who have previously been in care as well as organisers, care workers and senior managers from Falkirk Council to take part in an afternoon of activities including arts & crafts, music workshops as well as discussion groups with question and answer sessions.

Special guest at the event will be Falkirk author and playwright Alan Bissett who will formally open the event taking place between 2pm and 5pm.

Councillor Linda Gow, Falkirk Council’s spokesperson for Health and Social Care said: “The Leaving Care team have helped several hundred young people find their feet after leaving the care system over the past 12 years

“We’re hoping to see existing care leavers as well as anyone who has previously been through the system to bring their thoughts, views and memories to share as well as enjoy the activities on offer.

“If you are a care leaver up to the age of 21 then help and advice about services, benefits, accommodation, training and jobs is freely available and we’d encourage you to get in touch with the team to find out more.”

You can find out more by visiting the leaving care webpage or by contacting the team for a free ticket on 01324 501050.

The event is being supported by the Children’s Rights Service; Barnardo’s Axis Service; Falkirk Council; Skills Development Scotland; NHS Forth Valley and others.