Sophie registered with Warrington Young Carers to access support as she cared for both her Mum and Dad.  Her Mum sadly passed away in November 2022 and she continues to care for her dad and helps out her Nan. Sophie attended Warrignton Carers Hub, Young Carers Drop In regularly and enjoyed many young carer activities with her stand out favourite being a trip to Safety Central last summer.  Sophie continues to access support for her caring role with the Adult Carers Service and attends Coffee & Chat’s when her busy schedule allows. Sophie said “I am grateful for the support I received from Warrington Carers Hub and Child Bereavement UK who has been best able to support me since the loss of my Mum. “

Sophie is studying Early Years, Childcare and Education and is a Student Ambassador, Volunteer at Warrington Youth Zone and works on a part time basis.

Sophie was recently nominated for the Student of the Year Award by her Progress Tutor. She was shocked to find that she had been shortlisted and even more surprised to find out that she had won.

Sophie travelled to London for the awards ceremony held at Mansion House, the official residence of the Mayor of London. “My favourite part of the evening was going up to collect the award as well as hearing about everyone else’s successes,” said Sophie.

The Student Social Mobility Awards are organised by upReach to showcase the incredible achievements of undergraduates from lower socio-economic backgrounds. They recognise students who have excelled in their studies and beyond and shown great potential to excel as they launch their careers. Sophie, who is also studying Criminology, was recognised for being “an active member of her local community as well as volunteering at local events supporting young people from disadvantaged backgrounds.”

The award also recognised how, for the past year, she has been a youth leader at Warrington Youth Zone, working with a range of young people with varied needs. Sophie has also taken part in Warrington’s Buddy Up programme, offering weekly support to a young person with several mental health needs.  Sophie said “I just really enjoy helping people, when I found out that I won the award for what I do I was shocked as well as massively proud of myself and just excited.”

Sophie continues to uphold her dream of helping people by continuing to study, and work with children with SEND and hopes to work within Educational Pastoral Care.

Sophie really is an inspiration to us all and we wish her continued success.