As we mark National Care Leavers Week 2024, it’s a time to bring attention to the unique challenges faced by young people transitioning out of the care system. For many, this week is an important reminder of the barriers that exist for care leavers in building independent, fulfilling lives. At NYAS, we’re committed to ensuring that these young people have the support and resources they need to thrive.
The Transition to Independence
Leaving the care system is a huge change, and for many care leavers, the experience can be both exciting and daunting. Unlike their peers, who often have family members to lean on, care leavers may find themselves navigating the path to adulthood alone. This transition can be particularly challenging, as care leavers face practical, emotional, and social obstacles without a consistent support network.
Key Challenges Faced by Care Leavers
1. Housing and Stability
Stable housing is fundamental for any young person trying to establish their life, yet care leavers are disproportionately affected by housing instability. The latest report in NYAS’ ‘Across the Border’ series highlights the discrimination that is prevalent in the private rental sector, specifically towards those who have left the care system. Care leavers told NYAS and Generation Rent that landlords are often not willing to rent properties to them once they learn of their care experience status. It is, therefore, unsurprising that one in three care leavers across England and Wales experience homelessness in the first two years of leaving care.
We are calling on the UK and Welsh Government to remove these barriers to securing a home through improved housing support and placing a statutory duty on local authorities to act as guarantors for all care leavers.
2. Mental Health and Emotional Wellbeing
Care-experienced young people are four times more likely to experience mental health difficulties compared to their peers. The absence of a support network, coupled with past trauma or experiences within the care system, can exacerbate issues such as anxiety, depression, and loneliness. The transition out of care is an emotionally charged time, and without accessible mental health services, care leavers may struggle to manage the emotional pressures they face. NYAS’ ‘Looked After Minds’ campaign calls on the UK and Welsh Governments to take urgent action that prioritises the mental health and wellbeing of care-experienced children and young people.
3. Education and Employment
Pursuing higher education or gaining stable employment can be a lifeline for care leavers, yet barriers exist in accessing both. Many care leavers lack the financial resources to pursue further education and may not have the guidance necessary to navigate the system. As a result, many care leavers find themselves in precarious, low-paying jobs without prospects for advancement. This can create a cycle of financial insecurity, further compounding their struggles. Our Side by Side programme offers practical support to care leavers, working with them to build key life skills and navigate the processes involved in higher education and employment.
4. Financial Independence and Support
Financial management is challenging for any young adult, but for care leavers, the stakes are often higher. Many have limited experience managing money and are at risk of falling into debt or struggling to cover essential expenses. Without consistent financial guidance, young people leaving care are more likely to experience poverty and financial instability.
5. Building Relationships and Support Networks
After leaving the care system, many young people struggle to maintain meaningful relationships and establish a support network. The lack of family connections and difficulty in trusting others due to past experiences can leave care leavers feeling isolated. Building healthy relationships is crucial to emotional wellbeing, but without strong role models or family support, this can be an uphill battle.
How We Can Make a Difference
At NYAS, we’re determined to ensure that care leavers receive the support they need to overcome these challenges. Through advocacy, mentoring, and our supportive programmes, we work to bridge the gap for young people leaving the care system. Schemes like Side by Side offer care leavers both practical guidance and emotional support, helping them build resilience and confidence as they navigate life on their own.
National Care Leavers Week is a call to action. By raising awareness, fostering supportive networks, and advocating for better resources, we can make a lasting impact on the lives of young people transitioning from care. At NYAS, we believe that every care leaver deserves the opportunity to thrive, and we’re committed to standing beside them every step of the way.
If you would like to learn more about our services, please visit our Young People webpage. Together, we can ensure that no care leaver is left to face these challenges alone
