WHEN a 16-year-old Warrington school boy answered the door expecting a lift to the prom – what he didn’t expect was one of his rugby heroes to be standing in front of him.
School boy Adam opened the door dressed in his prom suit to be greeted by Warrington Wolves and England centre Ryan Atkins.
To his shock, he was told that Diane, his Warrington Borough Council social worker and his foster carer Craig, had been planning the surprise for weeks, arranging for Ryan to escort him to the end of year prom, giving him a pep talk along the way.
Craig Metcalf, Adam’s Foster Carer of three years, said: “Adam is a Warrington Wolves super-fan and hasn’t had the easiest start to his life.
“All 16 year olds need support and guidance to keep them focused on taking the right path and this was definitely the boost Adam needed. I can’t thank Ryan and Diane enough – they have made a young boy very happy.
“He was ecstatic. It was an inspiring and emotional moment to see his face light up as he opened the door.”
Cllr Jean Carter, Warrington Council executive board member for children and families, said: “Supporting our most vulnerable young people to live full and active lives is one of our utmost priorities.
“We developed a series of pledges, in conjunction with our Children in Care Council, which reflect how we are committed to supporting the young people in our care.
“These include: ‘Allow us to choose our own activities and support us in our interests’ and ‘Our dreams can come true if you support us’.
“Events such as this are perfect examples of how we are keeping these promises. By using our community resources, we can ensure positive outcomes for our young people; guiding them in the right direction by engaging them where their interests lie.
“It is heartening to see how much Adam has gained from this experience and we wish him the very best for his future.”
Ryan Atkins said: “I gain so much from these experiences, inspiring and encouraging the next generation to take positive steps forward is something I am very passionate about.
“Growing up can be tough – keeping yourself busy and focusing on your goals is key. Adam and I had a great chat and I’m hopeful it’s had an impact.
“I know he’s a keen boxer, as he trains at the gym a friend of mine is a coach at, so I’ll be checking in on him from time-to-time. I’ll look forward to seeing him again and hearing about his progress.”
Could you help nurture a young person like Adam? Visit: warringtonfostering.co.uk and find out more about becoming a foster carer. Submit an enquiry form online and come along to one of the monthly information sessions at Orford Neighbourhood Jubilee Hub to start your journey.
Adam with Ryan Atkins
