Gracie and Katie shortlisted for national Frontline Awards as Shared Lives programme recognised for innovation

Gracie (pictured above, on the right) and Katie (pictured above, on the left) have both been shortlisted for the Young People Award, which celebrates young people with experience of social care who are creating change. The Shared Lives for Young People Leaving Care programme has also been shortlisted for the Innovation Award, recognising new approaches that improve support for children and young people.

Gracie and Katie are part of our Shared Lives for Young People Leaving Care programme, where care-experienced ambassadors co-lead and shape the work.

Gracie, who is supported through Rotherham Shared Lives, has used her experience of homelessness and autism to speak out about the challenges many young people face when leaving care. She has shared her story in Parliament, on national media, and through our films, helping professionals and decision-makers understand what needs to change.

Katie, who is supported through Camphill Village Trust Shared Lives, is a strong and determined advocate for young people with care experience. She speaks up for disabled young people in foster care and helps others understand the value of staying in a family home beyond 18.

She has also created opportunities for connection, including setting up a bowling group so care-experienced young people can come together, build friendships and support each other.

The Shared Lives for Young People Leaving Care programme has also been recognised at the awards for its innovative approach.

Care-experienced young people often face a sharp drop in support when they turn 18. Many are at increased risk of homelessness, poor mental health and social isolation.

Our programme works differently. It supports young people from age 16 and beyond, helping them build relationships, confidence and independence at their own pace.

It is the first programme of its kind to focus on supporting care-experienced young people with a learning disability, autism, mental health needs or complex trauma through Shared Lives.

Since launching in 2024, the programme has already supported more than 125 young people to build stable, meaningful lives.

The winners of the Frontline Awards 2026 will be announced at a ceremony in London on 13th May. 

We’re incredibly proud of Gracie, Katie and everyone involved in the programme.

Learn more about Shared Lives for young people leaving care: Shared Lives for care leavers, transitions and young adults.

Watch our ambassador film: Freedom, family and fun – care leavers share their Shared Lives stories on film.

Explore our resources: Programme resources.