Support for care leavers in North Lincolnshire is being extended further, increasing the help they get to ensure they live successful and independent lives.
North Lincolnshire Council recently made a commitment to increasing the offer of support and advice beyond the age of 25 for care leavers – to ensure there is someone there to support and advise them when they need it throughout their lives.
Now, extra cash will be provided to help meet the rise in energy costs and provide access to free wi-fi – an essential requirement for teenagers and young adults. Extra cash will also be provided for driving lessons – ensuring children in care get the same support most other children get as they reach driving age.
Cllr Julie Reed, cabinet member for children and families, said: “We always strive to keep children in their families, in their homes and their communities wherever we can, however there are times when this is not possible and those children that need our care and protection become ‘our children’ and we are their corporate parent.
“We work hard to ensure that they have a level playing field and encourage their aspirations and dreams and support them to realise them and we are especially proud of their achievements.
“We understand the impact of being a care leaver and we will support, nurture and parent them beyond childhood to help them to build careers, create families of their own and become part of their community, accessing new opportunities and experiences that inspire them to set ambitious goals for themselves.
“Some are faced with difficulties at various points in their adult lives and that’s where our ‘life-long offer’ steps in to provide them with the advice, stability and support they need to be successful.”
