Barnardo’s calls on the UK Government to fulfil its promise to support care leavers

As the number of children in care in England climbs to a thirty year high, Barnardo’s is today calling on the UK government to set aside vital funds to ensure all care leavers have equal access to lifeline support until the age of 25.

Research shows young people who have been in care face significant challenges. Care leavers in England are four or five times more likely to self-harm and 84% leave school without five good GCSEs.

In England, Personal Advisors help support care leavers into adult life, by providing guidance with maintaining good health, securing housing and getting into education and employment. 

Barnardo’s calculates for just £1,280 a year, a care leaver could be fully supported by a Personal Advisor up to the age of 25. Personal Advisors can help care leavers in England older than 21 only if they are in education or training, so 23,000 care leavers have support from their Personal Advisor cut off at the age of 21. At that point, some of England’s most vulnerable young people, including those with mental health issues, as well as care leavers in work, are forced to fend for themselves.

Department for Education figures in England reveal the number of children in care is at the highest level since 1985. David Cameron has promised to take action, and improve outcomes for care leavers.

This Spending Review, Barnardo’s is calling on the UK Government to set aside £33 million to ensure all care leavers in England, not just those in education or training, can gain access to a crucial adult guidance and support.

Javed Khan (pictured), Barnardo’s Chief Executive, said:“The outcomes for care leavers in England are a disgrace. Personal Advisors give the UK Government a golden opportunity to transform their life chances.

“For less than £1,300 a year, the UK Government can help some of England’s most vulnerable young people, to manage everyday issues like debt, housing and poor health, and to gain training and employment skills.

“Every young person deserves the opportunity to fulfil their potential.”