A personal adviser from Bury Council’s Next Chapter Leaving Care Team has been shortlisted for a prestigious national award recognising exceptional support to young people transitioning out of care.
Sharon Duncan, who supports care-experienced young people aged 16 to 25, has been named a finalist for the Personal Adviser of the Year at the National Leaving Care Benchmarking Forum (NLCBF) Awards. The ceremony takes place tonight, 13 November, in Birmingham, forming part of National Care Leavers Month.
Sharon's work focuses on helping young people navigate life’s major transitions, including securing housing, managing money, and accessing education or employment. She also supports them with everyday practicalities like setting up a new home, shopping for essentials and preparing to live independently.
Her approach combines guidance and encouragement with a strong focus on helping young adults become self-reliant. She works with each young person to draw up plans around their home life, education and work, while also linking them to professional networks such as employment advisors.
Sharon was nominated by her manager, Kelly Catherall, who praised her for guiding a young person through a significant life change in a “safe, sensitive, and non-judgemental manner”.
“She listened and demonstrated empathy,” said Kelly. “I am extremely proud of Sharon.”
Reflecting on the nomination, Sharon said: “I was delighted to be shortlisted for this award, as I find my job so rewarding. It is a privilege to walk alongside young people as they take their first steps into independence and be there to support them through the ups and downs of their daily lives.
“There are challenging moments, but it’s wonderful to see their confidence grow and to celebrate their achievements together.”
Councillor Lucy Smith, Bury Council’s cabinet member for children and young people, congratulated Sharon, describing her as someone whose “compassionate approach makes a real difference”.
“Personal advisers like Sharon provide essential one-to-one support, building trusting relationships that offer young people a reliable person to turn to during what can be the most challenging transitions of their lives,” said Cllr Smith.
“The National Leaving Care Awards give us the important opportunity to celebrate her dedication and highlight the critical role personal advisers play every day.”
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