Finding a Path through Care and Leadership

Earlier this year, Hartlepool College student Grace Somerville-Wray was recognised as Young Adult Carer of the Year at the 2025 Hartlepool Heroes Awards, celebrating her outstanding achievements as a full-time carer for her grandparents.

At just 18 years old, Grace exemplifies how the qualities of a natural caregiver and emerging leader can work hand in hand. Her story is one of personal growth, dedication, and the transformative power of finding the right educational environment. When Grace first arrived at Hartlepool College, she was looking for a quiet environment where she could explore her options. Having transitioned into further education from Manor Community Academy in Hartlepool, Grace initially enrolled on a Foundation Course in IT, drawn to its smaller class sizes and supportive atmosphere.

"Grace was very shy initially," recalls Sue Harris, Head of the School of SEND and Foundation Studies, who has watched Grace's transformation. "She was unsure which subject area she wanted to pursue, so IT seemed like a good starting point."

But Grace brought something special with her – years of experience as a full-time carer for both of her grandparents. This wasn't just a responsibility she had taken on; it was an important part of who she was. Sadly, Grace’s grandmother passed away earlier this year, and Grace now continues to care for her grandad while pursuing her full-time studies.

After trying out IT and taster sessions in different subject areas, Grace discovered that Health and Care was a perfect fit. The course aligned with her existing expertise and passion for caring, allowing her to build on the skills she had already developed through her family responsibilities.

"It became clear that Grace's caring experience was actually one of her greatest strengths," explains Andrea Anderson, Deputy Head of the School of SEND and Foundation Studies. "She didn't just have academic potential ~ she had real-world experience that enriched her studies." Grace’s remarkable contributions as a young carer and outstanding student didn't go unnoticed in the wider community.

When Grace's name was announced as the winner of the Young Adult Carer of the Year award at the Hartlepool Heroes ceremony, the emotion was palpable. As her photo appeared on screen at the historic Borough Hall, the entire audience rose in a standing ovation.

"I just felt so happy," Grace said about the moment. "I couldn’t believe it was me. The college has given me so much support - it's helped me keep going with everything."

For Sue and Andrea, who attended the awards ceremony alongside Grace, it was an incredibly emotional moment. "We were elated when we learned she had won," they shared. "It was such a proud moment not just for her but for the whole college who know and love Grace."

Despite her initial shyness, Grace has become a well-known and beloved figure throughout the college. Every morning, Grace arrives early to help staff prepare Cafe Rapport for the day. A particularly well-organised student who has the natural ability to bring others together, Grace is actively involved in college events like the Fresher's Fair, and her confidence has grown so much that she naturally directs group work and supports fellow students. Grace is regularly found in Student Support, the central hub of the college, getting to know staff and other students alike. Her warm personality means she greets everyone she meets, creating connections that strengthen the entire college community.

"In her IT course, Grace was one of only a few female students," notes Sue. "But rather than being intimidated, she took other female students under her wing and emerged as a confident student leader.” Grace's ambitions reflect her growing skills and confidence: having completed her Level 1 Introductory to Health and Care qualification, she aspires to become either a support worker or a teacher, continuing her studies in the current academic year as she begins her Level 2 Health and Care course.

As Grace prepares for her next academic challenge, her story serves as an inspiration to others who might be balancing significant caring responsibilities with their education. She has shown that these experiences, rather than being obstacles, can become the foundation for personal growth, education, and making incredible contributions to the community.

The Hartlepool Heroes Awards, organised by The PFC Trust in partnership with Hartlepool Borough Council and Hartlepool Carers, exist to celebrate exactly this kind of story – individuals who make their communities better through dedication, compassion, and service to others. Grace Somerville-Wray embodies the very best of what it means to be a Hartlepool Hero, a leader, and a carer.

The PFC Trust aims to improve the lives and life chances of people across the North East by highlighting and appreciating the good in the region and helping those who need it. Through events like Hartlepool Heroes, the Trust continues to celebrate the extraordinary contributions of ordinary people who make their communities special.