The manager of a highly successful Staffordshire programme supporting care leavers into employment has been recognised at a national awards ceremony.
Chloe Kelly, programme manager for Staffordshire County Council’s Care Leavers into Employment initiative, has won the Rising Star award at the Municipal Journal (MJ) Achievement Awards 2026. The MJ is one of the UK’s leading publications for the local government sector.
Chloe was recognised for her leadership of a programme that has already supported more than 90 care leavers into education, employment and training. The initiative works closely with local businesses to match young people with the right opportunities, while helping employers benefit from a motivated and often overlooked talent pool.
The county council is encouraging businesses of all sizes to get involved, helping to diversify their workforce and strengthen their social value offer.
Businesses can find out more by emailing supportingcareleaversemployment@staffordshire.gov.uk
The programme has already attracted attention at a national level, with government ministers taking an interest in its approach. The team will soon present its work and future ambitions at the Houses of Parliament, with the aim of exploring how the model could be rolled out more widely.
Chloe said:
I feel incredibly grateful and proud to have received this recognition – it honestly means so much to me. But this award really isn’t just about me. I’ve been so lucky to have the support of an amazing team, strong leadership, and the wider backing of Staffordshire County Council, and I couldn’t have achieved this without them.
This really feels like just the beginning. I’m passionate about making a lasting difference for care leavers, and I’m determined to keep building on this work to create even more opportunities and positive change.”
Robin Hall, Staffordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Economy and Skills said:
It's a fantastic achievement for Chloe to receive national recognition for her work leading this programme. The award is thoroughly deserved and reflects the difference she is making to the lives of young people across Staffordshire. This programme is helping care leavers access opportunities, build confidence and develop the skills they need to succeed, while also connecting local employers with talented and motivated young people.
Supporting skills, employment and opportunity for all residents is a key priority for the county council. We know that care leavers have enormous potential and, with the right support, can thrive in the workplace. Thanks to Chloe’s dedication and leadership, this programme is going from strength to strength and making a real difference.”
More than 1,000 young people in Staffordshire aged 16 to 25 have spent time in care, whether with a foster family, in a children’s home, or in supported housing. Despite being capable and having so much to offer, care leavers are still far less likely to be in education, employment or training than their peers.
