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Improving experiences
for the next generation.

What happens in our community

The Drive Forward Community is more than a support network — it’s a living, breathing movement of young people, mentors, partners, ambassadors, and allies working together to open doors, build confidence, and transform futures.

Whether through festivals, networking, celebrations, or peer-led projects, our community ensures that every care-experienced young person feels seen, supported, and connected.

Drive socials & networking

Breaking down barriers

Regular social gatherings — both virtual and in-person — where mentors, mentees, alumni, and supporters come together to:

  • Share stories, laughs, and encouragement
  • Build peer support and informal networks
  • Take part in mentor “open mic” sessions to share quick insights & ideas

These socials foster belonging and community, breaking down barriers between “professional” and “personal” and creating space for real human connection.

Care to Career festival

A celebration of all we hope to achieve

Our annual Care to Career Festival is a vibrant celebration of possibility — connecting young people, employers, and creatives in a space filled with opportunity and inspiration.

  • Live career fair with inclusive employers and industry panels
  • Workshops on careers, wellbeing, finance, arts, and culture
  • “Hear My Story” sessions where care-experienced young people share their journeys
  • A space for creativity, growth, and discovering what’s possible

It’s a celebration, a learning space, and a launchpad — where the next chapter of a young person’s career can begin.

A warm, powerful evening dedicated to recognising the courage, achievements, and resilience of our young people.

  • Awards, spotlights, and storytelling
  • Mentor and mentee recognition
  • An opportunity for families, partners, and alumni to join in celebrating milestones and community impact

This event reminds us why we do what we do — and that every success, big or small, deserves to be seen.

The year wouldn’t be complete without our Drive Forward Christmas Celebration — a joyful event bringing together our entire community to end the year on a high note.

  • A chance to reconnect, relax, and celebrate everything achieved through the year
  • Gift-giving and surprises for our young people, made possible by our generous partners and donors
  • Reflections and highlights from our mentors, mentees, and alumni

Our Christmas event captures what Drive Forward is all about — connection, care, and community.

Our Drive Forward Ambassadors are young people and mentors who represent our values, lead by example, and shape the future of our community.

Ambassadors help to:

  • Guide peers into mentoring, events, and programmes
  • Co-design workshops, campaigns, and community projects
  • Represent Drive Forward at public events, social media, and partner networks

They are the heart of our advocacy work — ensuring the voice of lived experience is front and centre.

Building skills. Opening doors. Shaping futures.

Professional development at Drive Forward is about more than getting a job, it is about discovering your potential and gaining the confidence to use it. Through our network of partner employers, mentors, and workshops, you gain real insight into the world of work and what it takes to thrive there.

From career clubs and CV sessions to industry insight days, mock interviews, and  sector pathways, every opportunity is designed to help you build practical skills, confidence, and experience. Our professional development activities are a chance to explore your interests, understand different sectors, and connect directly with people who believe in your success.

Each session is a step forward in preparing you not just for work, but for leadership, independence, and a future shaped on your own terms.

Alumni

Staying connected beyond the programme

We never forget our “aged-out” members – once you join us, you’re always part of the family.

Our Alumni Network connects care-experienced professionals who have progressed through Drive Forward programmes and want to stay involved by:

  • Mentoring the next generation
  • Speaking at events and festivals
  • Sharing your career journey
  • Helping shape our future work

The alumni community shows that success after care is not only possible — it’s happening every day.

Why it matters

Belonging

Many young people leaving care have felt disconnected or unsupported; this is a place where they belong.

Voice & agency

The community amplifies lived experience, ensuring programmes are shaped with — not for — the people they serve.

Visibility & impact

Many young people leaving care have felt disconnected or unsupported; this is a place where they belong.

Sustained engagement

The community amplifies lived experience, ensuring programmes are shaped with — not for — the people they serve.
Join the community

There's a place for everyone at Drive Forward

Whether you’re a young person, mentor, partner, or ally — there’s a place for you at Drive Forward.

  • Attend: Join socials, festivals, or workshops
  • Engage: Raise your voice, lead activity, or become an ambassador
  • Share: Invite others, tell your story, and help widen the circle
Get involved
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