The City of Wolverhampton Council has been shortlisted for recognition in 2 categories at this year’s National Children & Young People Awards.
Young Persons Advisor Sam Neath is in the running for the Biggest Impact Award for his efforts in spearheading the National Championship Cup football tournament for care leavers, which took place at Molineux Stadium this summer, while the Reach Leaving Care Team has been shortlisted for its partnership working with Wolves Foundation and Little Earth.
Over 200 young care leavers from across England gathered for the highly anticipated National Championship Cup 25 in June – with the event receiving praise in the House of Commons.
Organised by Sam, the Reach Leaving Care Team and Wolves Foundation, the inspiring six-a-side football tournament offered care experienced young people aged 16 to 24 the opportunity to compete, connect, and showcase their skills on Molineux’s hallowed turf.
The tournament was born out of a conversation between Sam and a young person who was no longer involved in football because he lacked the support network to take him to games and training.
A group of young people with care experience came together to form Wolverhampton Warriors and competed against teams from 3 other local authorities for the first National Championship Cup in 2022. The tournament doubled in size in 2023 and was held at Molineux for the first time in 2024.
Councillor Jacqui Coogan, Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Education, said: “Sam and his colleagues within the Reach service have collaborated closely with the Wolves Foundation and other external partners to create an unforgettable experience for care leavers, inspiring local authorities nationwide to form teams, train together, and foster a sense of community and belonging, which can often be lost for some when leaving care.
“Sam’s ambition and his mantra, ‘anything is possible,’ reflect his commitment to the tournament’s growth, and it is brilliant that his efforts have been recognised by the National Children & Young People Awards.”
Meanwhile, the Reach Leaving Care Team has been recognised for its outstanding partnership work with Wolves Foundation and Little Earth, which has significantly improved outcomes for care experienced young people in Wolverhampton.
Through co-designed Nurturing You Retreats with Little Earth, the team has created safe spaces to support young people in exploring healing, self care, and personal growth. Three retreats have been held so far, helping young people reconnect with themselves, build confidence, and reflect on their journeys in a positive and affirming way.
In another outstanding collaboration, the team partnered with the Wolves Foundation to support the Wolverhampton Warriors. Through this partnership, young people received professional coaching and training in preparation for the National Championship Cup.
Councillor Coogan added: “Our Reach Leaving Care team has demonstrated exceptional commitment to improving outcomes for care experienced young people in Wolverhampton through innovative and meaningful partnership working. Their collaborative efforts have not only enhanced service delivery but have also created transformative experiences that promote healing, empowerment, and aspiration.”
The National Children & Young People Awards celebrates excellence in care for children, young people and families, showcase innovation and best practice and pays tribute to individuals or organisations who excel in quality care provision. The winners will be announced at the ICC in Birmingham on 3 October, 2025. For more information, visit
The National Children & Young People Awards.
Sam has also been nominated for a Special Award from the West Midlands ADCS (Association of Directors of Children’s Services) Network.