Young adults who currently receive help from the care system will benefit from extended support following the introduction of the Children and Social Work Act (2017).
Previously when a young adult left the care system at the age of 18 they would receive support in the form of a personal advisor who would be available to help with a range of different issues including jobs and housing. This would last up until the age of 21 if they were no longer in education.
However, under new rules Swindon Borough Council will now be providing personal advisors for young adults in care up until the age of 25 to help care leavers live independent and successful lives.
Over 180 care leavers in Swindon will now be eligible for additional support having left the care system within the past eight years. The Council will be attempting to contact all eligible care leavers but, in cases where contact details are out of date, this may not be possible.
Anyone who has been in the care system and is aged under 25 is encouraged to contact the Council on 01793 466717 to see what support is available.
Councillor Mary Martin, Cabinet Member for Children and School Attainment, said, “We absolutely welcome this change from the Government and I feel it is only right that we support those young adults for longer so they get the chance to achieve their goals and go on to lead fulfilling lives.
“If you are a care leaver, or you know someone under the age of 25 who has been in the care system, please get in touch so we can make sure everyone receives any support needed.”