‘Significant and Authentic Relationships’ Making the Links a brand-new venture with Stoke on Trent City Council, Nov 2026

Last week, I launched my brand-new course, ‘Significant and Authentic Relationships’ Making the Links, which supports the governments Enduring Relationships 2026 agenda.  The course has been commissioned by Stoke on Trent City Council, always ahead of the curve.  I was given plenty of headroom to create the course and of course, I got creative!

Fully interactive hands-on learning tools and three brand new films.  The films ‘star’ some absolutely brilliant young people from across North Staffordshire, all of whom have lived experience of leaving care and transitioning to independence.  It was exceptionally rewarding hearing their stories, especially when listening to the positive outcomes.  Two former care leavers are now at university studying to be social workers, and what amazing social workers they will be. 

So, what does it entail, well, let me enlighten you:

Aim: The aim of this session is to ensure that young care leavers from across Stoke on Trent foster the skills to recognise significant and authentic relationships. 

Objectives: By the end of the day’s training, all learners will have:

1.      Described what we mean by ‘authentic.’

2.      Expressed how trauma can manifest in young people.

3.      Analysed barriers to engagement. 

4.      Explained the importance of having ‘Lifelong Links’ and nurturing connections. 

5.      Explored shameful self-image and finding authenticity.

6.      Examined what young people from across our local area have to say about their situation. 

7.      Determined the best course of action to support, advocate, explore and encourage. 

I have really enjoyed creating this course.  And you’ll be hearing more about it later in November…

Here’s the quote that I share on training. 

“Our ambition is a children’s social care system where every child grows up with enduring, trusted relationships that provide stability and belonging into adulthood, so they feel safe, loved, and able to thrive. This means that children’s social care should nurture connection with families, friends and other trusted and valued adults, both those that they hold when entering care and new ones that they encounter within care.”

Enduring Relationships Policy Paper, Sept 2026