Trust’s Awards had The X Factor

Slough Children’s Services Trust’s awards ceremony for Children in Care and Care Leavers had the‘ X-tra Factor’ when Slough’s own Nate Simpson came along to help present the awards last night (Thursday, 17 November).

Recording artist Nate, who got as far as judges’ houses in this year’s X Factor show, is very involved in local charities, including SWIPE, the Slough-based charity which helps further the education and training of children and young people at risk of being excluded from school using music as a medium.

‘I was delighted to be asked along to the awards,’ said Nate, ‘I’m very keen on supporting any cause which gives young people opportunities and recognises achievement. I didn’t hesitate when the Trust got in touch, I just said ‘Yes, I’m there’ and it’s been inspiring to meet everyone and see how well they’ve done,’ he added.

The awards are held annually for children in care and care leavers from Year 1 upwards. This year there were more than 120 nominations, with winners including those who have overcome difficulties and are doing really well at school and care leavers who have re-engaged with education or secured apprenticeships and university places.

Nicola Clemo, Chief Executive of the Slough Children’s Services Trust handed out the main category awards, alongside Nate. ‘This event is the highlight of our year and it’s wonderful to celebrate everyone’s achievements and recognise the incredible things our children and young people doing,’ she said.

The event was attended by the children and young people, their carers and support workers, Trust board members, Trust staff, representatives from health, schools and Thames Valley Police as well as councillors and officials from Slough Borough Council.

The Trust was especially delighted that the Council’s Deputy Leader, Cllr Sabia Hussain, came along to support the event and to present the outstanding achievement awards.