Wiltshire Council is marking a special milestone – 100 Independent Visitors now matched with children and young people who are in care or have experienced care bringing kindness, consistency, and a meaningful presence into their lives.

Sarah Atkinson is the 100th Independent Visitor to join the initiative joining a dedicated group of individuals who give time, energy and compassion.

She said: “It was a lovely surprise to find out that my young person and I were both the 100th match and to attend the celebration event together. We both enjoyed the cupcakes, and she had fun creating pictures and having balloons.  We are recently matched, and it was nice to continue getting to know her and I look forward to our future visits together”.

The Independent Visitor Scheme encourages volunteers to spend time with a child or young person in care and be a trusted adult from outside the care system who can offer consistent, long-term support.

Children and young people are matched with Independent Visitors on the basis of their interests and needs. Once they are appointed, they can be expected to visit and spend time with the children once a month for two to three hours. This support can continue for as long as a child or young person receives care or care leaver support from Wiltshire Council.

To celebrate the 100 milestone, Independent Visitors and children and young people were invited to attend a celebration event at County Hall in Trowbridge attended by Cllr Jon Hubbard, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services.

He said: ““Reaching 100 Independent Visitors is a remarkable achievement – 100 trusted adults making a real difference in young lives. We’re not just celebrating a number, but the hundreds of moments that have brought connection, encouragement, and hope.

“These volunteers are more than independent visitors – they’re role models, listeners, and steady companions. They show up, care deeply, and ask for nothing in return.

“The children and young people they support have faced challenges many of us can’t imagine, yet they remain resilient, curious and full of potential. Independent Visitors help unlock that potential simply by being there.

“We always need more volunteers. If you’re interested, please get in touch. And to all our current Independent Visitors – thank you. You’re changing lives.”

People wishing to find out more details about the Independent Visitor scheme can contact: ivscheme@wiltshire.gov.uk.