northerncare have just celebrated their 10th anniversary in spectacular style with a themed Fun Day for the children they look after and for their staff. The event was held in Blackpool, where northerncare was established, and was based on the hit 80’s television show “It’s a Knockout.” Everyone was treated to inflatable obstacle courses, wacky races, plenty of wet and wild foam-filled challenges and a delicious barbeque after all the fun and celebrations.

Throughout northerncare’s history, their staff have made, and continue to make, a massive contribution to the success of the organisation. The event, therefore, served not only to celebrate the 10th anniversary but also to recognise the hard work and dedication shown by all the staff. Of course, the fun day was also to provide the children and young people with a day to remember.

19 teams from northerncare’s homes competed throughout the day in a variety of games in a bid to win prizes, trophies and plaudits. The event was split into two, with teams having young people under the age of 14 competing for the honours in the morning, whilst those aged over 15 were left to battle it out in the afternoon. The overall winners were team “Lamborghinis” made up of young people and staff from Piers House, Rowan House and Aidenswood.

Apart from all the fun and laughter, the day provided an excellent opportunity for the young people to let off steam in a competitive but controlled, fun and friendly manner. It also gave them the chance to meet people from other parts of the country and make new friends. Likewise, the event provided the staff with the opportunity to get together with their colleagues in a relaxed environment.

northerncare’s Chief Executive, David Rae, said, “It was great to see all the young people and staff have such a great day out to celebrate their achievements and northerncare’s anniversary. We have been looking after vulnerable children for ten years and hope to continue to build upon our success, which is routed in the belief that the young people we care for are central to our future growth. We would like to thank everyone who took part in the Fun Day and look forward to the next ten years.”

northerncare opened its first home, Piers House, in August 1999 and has since grown to be one of the largest providers of residential childcare with education in the country. northerncare now operate 32 homes nationwide and currently look after over 160 children and young people, employing around 600 people in full and part-time positions. Plans for further expansion in the coming months are underway.