Still Caring? Supporting Care Leavers in Scotland
Topic: Corporate parenting, Health and Wellbeing, Legislation, Residential care, Throughcare and aftercare
Author: Zachari Duncalf, Louise Hill, Kenny McGhee
Approximately 1,000 young people leave care each year from a range of care settings, meaning there are approximately 9,000, 16 to 25 years-old care leavers currently living in Scotland.
We consider the gaps in provisions and the needs of care leavers up to the age of 25 as this is the age group suggested in the new Bill.
We propose there is an extension in legislation, policy and practice to support care leavers financially, practically and emotionally up to the age of 25 should they wish to receive this support. It is paramount that young people in care are supported to remain in quality care settings until they are ready to leave.
It is also crucial that emotional support that has been provided by key people in young people’s lives while they are in care is carried through into throughcare, aftercare and adulthood.