• Swindon & Wiltshire Social
• Friday April 4 2025
• Author Name: Peter Davison

Quiz night boost for Newbury’s young people in foster care

A West Berkshire charity supporting young people leaving foster care or who are homeless has been boosted by a fun quiz night staged by accountancy firm Azets in Newbury.

The event, hosted by the firm’s Newbury office, raised £750 for Bridge for Young People, the staff’s charity of the year.

Neil Elsden, office managing partner for Azets in Newbury, acted as quizmaster for the event at Newbury Rugby Club, which attracted 55 people in 10 teams.

Winners of the inaugural Azets Charity Quiz were the Newbury office of law firm Gardner Leader, with an Azets team taking the wooden spoon.

Neil said: “As a major business in Newbury it is incumbent upon us to demonstrate our commitment to doing our best for members of society in the area in which we live and work.

“My colleagues decided to support Bridge for Young People as a very worthwhile cause which helps so many young people get a better start to their adult life.

“Our quiz night, as well as being a fun event, raised much-needed funds for the charity, which relies on donations and sponsorship to finance its vital work – as well as creating awareness about its role.

Bridge for Young People provides a home and support to young people aged 16-25 who are leaving care or who are homeless.

The charity currently has three houses in Thatcham – Cornerstone, Rebecca House and Hope House – housing up to 10 young people.

It is opening Wessex House in May this year which will provide much needed move-on options for young people and will double the size of the charity.

Patsy and John Stone, who had fostered more than 25 children in 20 years, founded the charity, then known as Young People & Children First in 2008.

Bridge for Young People CEO Tracy Underwood said: “We support foster care leavers as they transition from teenagers to being independent adults.

“We ensure they have all the right building blocks in place to go confidently and positively into adult life so they can reach their potential and not be hindered by their troubled start. Above all, we prevent disadvantaged children and young people being homeless.

“Our residents have typically experienced varying challenges during their childhood. We provide them with a stable home, emotional support and practical help during this crucial time as they move into independence.

“Events such as the Azets quiz night help provide crucial funds to not only run our houses but also offer floating support for young people once they have left our accommodation.”