This week is National Care Leavers Week, which highlights the successes of young people who have been in care.

There are currently around 400 care leavers in Lincolnshire, with 96 percent of them choosing to access support from the council's leaving care service.

One of those to benefit is Courtney Rowland, who has been supported by her leaving-care worker Martha Horner for the past three years.

Courtney said: "Throughout my time with the leaving care service, I feel like I have grown as a person, as there has always been someone there supporting me, especially when I needed it most.

"I'm now on the Care Leavers Apprenticeship, doing my Level 2 Early Years qualification in a nursery. I realise I wouldn't be here if it wasn't for how persistent Martha has been with me, and how hard she has been working to make sure I am doing the best I can.

"Having one leaving-care worker has helped especially, as I feel like I managed to bond well with Martha, and she has taken her time with me, which has made my experience with leaving care incredible."

Cllr Mrs Patricia Bradwell OBE, executive member for children's services, said: "Young people leaving care face a number of challenges, and the council and its partner Barnardos are proud to support them.

"In April, we expanded our leaving care service, meaning young people are now introduced to their support worker earlier, giving them more time to build that important relationship.

"The council and Barnardos take pride every time a young person secures accommodation, gains employment or goes to university, and we enjoy watching them grow into independent and successful adults."

The Barnardos Leaving Care Service and Lincolnshire County Council recently introduced two new roles: a senior leaving-care worker, who encourages young people to engage fully with the service, and, with support from Clinical Commissioning Groups, a specialist mental health worker, who is being recruited.

Alongside the existing team of leaving-care workers and specialists in accommodation, employment and training, this means young people have the support they need to flourish.

For more information on the support available to those leaving care, visit the Family Services Directory or contact Barnardos Lincolnshire Leaving Care Service on 01255 575955