News
We held our first ever Gala Dinner on Friday 24th November and it proved to be a resounding success. Taking place at the beautiful Elvetham Hotel in Fleet, the evening saw 100 guests gather to celebrate the work of Step by Step and the people who help make it happen.
The event raised over £10,800 – a fantastic result that will make a genuine difference to many young lives.
The evening started with welcome drinks and the mellow grooves of a jazz duo. This was followed by a three-course dinner in the beautiful surrounds of the Library Room, adorned with fairy lights and festive flourishes. Everyone was in a celebratory mood, lending the evening a fantastic, jovial atmosphere.
The room quietened down when our speakers took to the floor. CEO Debbie talked about her experiences of fostering and her passion for supporting young people. She was followed by Caroline, who shared her experiences as a child in care. It was a truly moving story that really resounded with the guests.
Throughout the evening, Step by Step staff sold raffle tickets while guests placed their bids in the silent auction. This featured an array of amazing of prizes – each kindly donated to us – including theatre tickets with a backstage tour, exclusive golf tuition, and a stunning canvas by renowned painter Paul Treasure.
The evening was rounded off with a disco for those who fancied a boogie, while other guests sat to enjoy a final drink before making their way home.
We want to say a huge thank you to everyone who attended, bid, donated and otherwise supported the event.
Our short film, 18 Isn’t Cheaper, brings together lived experience, academic research and policy insight to show why the Universal Credit system leaves care leavers aged 18 to 24 at a significant disadvantage.
Hear directly from young people, their hosts and the professionals supporting them.
