A care leaver from Hull is sharing his story to inspire other children and young people in care. Nick Murray wants to help others realise there is hope and that social workers are on their side and want to make a positive difference. After spending 17 years in care, supported by social workers, Nick, now 21, is full of praise for the team of people who guided him through a journey full of ups and downs.
“Despite sometimes feeling like I was looked down on, and a bit of a charity case, being in care was probably the best place for me. It had its moments but I’ve some happy memories too.
“School was tough for me. Trouble used to follow me around and I’d get mixed up in the wrong crowds. But being in care allowed me to meet new people, and once I met my personal advisor when I was 19, my life changed for the better.
“She was amazing. She never doubted me and she did loads for me. I cannot thank her enough. She really has changed my life.
“I’ve heard social workers get slated. Claims that they’ve destroyed people’s lives but all I can say is that my social worker definitely made mine better.
“I now have an apprenticeship in building maintenance for NPS. All of their apprentices are care leavers so it’s a really good support network now we’re officially out of the system.
“I’ve got my own little place and I’m becoming more independent than I’ve ever been. I’ve dreams of going abroad for the first time and to have my own company.
“I want others in care to see me as hope. People do care, especially the social workers and the Leaving Care Team have been brilliant with me. It took me some time to see it but now, when I look back I realise that without these wonderful people working hard for people like me, and companies like NPS who are willing to give care leavers a chance I’d probably still be getting into trouble”.
