In recognition of National Care Leavers' Week, we’re sharing Ethan’s story. Ethan is a young man, now in his 20s, who has been connected to MAPS Mentoring for over 10 years, firstly as a Child in Care and then as a Care Leaver. As with all Children in Care, Ethan became a Care Leaver on his 16th birthday. 

MAPS Practitioner, Teresa Martucci, first met Ethan in 2012 to offer him Mentoring support. Ethan was going through a tough time and was unable to live with his birth family. As well as settling into foster care, he also had to change schools due to severe bullying.  

“Ethan was amazing, letting me know what support he needed and how other services had let him down in the past but he would give me one chance – for that I am truly grateful.” Teresa Martucci 

A couple of years later, Teresa was able to provide Ethan with the support of another Mentor. As a Child in Care turned Care Leaver, Ethan had to make a big decision about where he would be living in the future. Because of the timeframes for Care Leavers, this coincided with Ethan’s A levels and decision-making about his next steps.  

Only 13% of Care Leavers go onto further education (source: Become Charity) but Ethan not only made it to university – he graduated with a 2:1 and has since completed a Masters in Social Work. Ethan has also volunteered as a Young Commissioner, and as a MAPS Mentor, giving some of his free time to support other vulnerable young people, helping someone who felt like he once did. 

“This young man, as well as overcoming a very difficult childhood, has become one the most caring, helpful, inspirational young adults I know. He has continued in education when it would have been so easy to have given up. He is extremely caring, he is passionate about supporting others less fortunate and is truly a role model.” Teresa Martucci 

When Ethan was at a new life stage of building a career as a social worker, and moving into independent living, we were delighted once again to be able to provide Ethan with Mentoring support.  

Ethan caught up with his most recent Mentor, Jonathan, at the end of their year of Mentoring to reflect on their time together...