Strawberry Field celebrates young people with Summer Graduation

At Strawberry Field, we believe in creating opportunities for people to flourish and fulfil their potential. Our September 2026 graduation was both a celebration of what has been achieved and a stepping stone towards all that lies ahead.

This graduation fell on the 7th Anniversary of Strawberry Field reopening as a visitor attraction and home to the Steps at Strawberry Field programmes. What a day to be celebrating so many milestones that evidence's the Salvation Army's commitment to supporting young people in Liverpool. So many, due to differing factors, can often become marginalised, unseen and view themselves as different. Our mission is to get them into work where they can shine and experience life in all its fullness. We believe that young people want to work, they just need a little support and some belief that diversity in the work place can be dazzling, that difference is strength and talent. 

We heard from guest speakers, including the Lord Mayor of Liverpool, Councillor William Shortall, trainee parent Lisa and Steps for Students alumna Sarah and Emese. Steps to Work graduate Dan Sanderson was also this graduation's winner of our Shine On award.

40 young people graduated from a Steps at Strawberry Field programme, with 31 working towards employability outcomes. 83.9% are now in paid employment, with 3.2% moving into meaningful volunteering and 12.9% actively job searching.

To our dignitaries, honoured guests, supporters of Strawberry Field and everyone who spoke at the event, thank you for taking the time to be with us and celebrate this important occasion with our graduates.

To our wonderful volunteers, who generously give their time to support our mission, thank you. A special thank you to Jim Keelan and Jacob Doig for generously capturing the day through photography, and to Ben Hibbert for filming and helping us preserve these special memories.

And finally, to our amazing Steps Team and the wider Strawberry Field team – thank you for everything you do, day in and day out. We could not do the work we do without you all.