After the success of Susan's debut book ‘Traced’ which documented her journey through the 1970s and 80s during times of traumatic racism, shortly followed by her second book ‘Love Susan’ which chronicles the reality of life as an adoptee, local broadcaster Susan Vickers is now set to launch the Susan Vickers Foundation.

Following the enormous support and feedback from both books, Susan wants to address the huge gap that many care-experienced young people have in today's society, so they can enjoy the life experiences they deserve, enabling them to have a full an enriched life.

Remember how we all went to school? Yes, the place where we were taught to read, write, do maths, understand history, and interpret geography. And then there were those nerve-wracking exams that tested our knowledge, skills, and abilities.

But do you know what? Our education wasn't limited to what we learned in the classroom. We read books and newspapers, went on excursions to museums, enjoyed pantomimes, joined clubs, and played sports. These experiences contributed to our wider knowledge, vocabulary, social skills, and self-confidence.

They made us who we are today and helped us take part in society. Unfortunately, not everyone has had the privilege of these cultural experiences. As a result, disadvantaged young people, including those who have spent time in care, are left out in many areas of employment and society.

It's not because they lack ability but rather the confidence to take part. That's where The Susan Vickers Foundation comes in - to provide cultural experiences to young people so that they can develop the confidence to know that they belong in all areas of public life.

Working together with local businesses and communities The Susan Vickers Foundation's mission is to help these young people build bright futures through access to education, mentoring, mental health resources, and career development opportunities. We believe that with the right support and guidance, care-experienced people have immense potential to thrive.

The Foundation will also focus on developing self-sufficiency, resilience and social skills to help young people transition successfully to adulthood.

“Children who are in the care system, are there through no fault of their own, so it is unfair for them to begin adult life feeling like they are excluded from enjoying life to its full potential,” says Susan.