A new government programme is making strides in supporting young adults as they transition out of the care system, addressing the emotional and practical challenges many face. This initiative, called the Finding Family programme, aims to help young individuals establish meaningful relationships with trusted adults, ultimately providing a sense of belonging and security as they embark on their adult lives.
A Journey from Care to Connection
Poppie, an 18-year-old who recently left a children’s home in Hertfordshire, has discovered the profound impact of supportive relationships in her life. Having entered the care system at the age of 10 due to difficulties in her relationship with her mother, Poppie moved through various placements, including a foster family and a children’s home. Now, as she steps into adulthood, she has embraced a new family—Brigitte Marshall and her son, Reuben, who were pivotal support workers during her time in care.
“I had no-one else, so to feel part of a family after leaving care is making a huge difference,” Poppie shared. Reuben, who served as her key worker, played an instrumental role in helping her prepare for her GCSEs. Today, he and Brigitte accompany her to medical appointments and assist her in selecting a college course. This September, Poppie will commence her studies in health and care, with aspirations of becoming a doctor.
Poppie’s bond with the Marshall family is so deep that she affectionately calls Brigitte “mummy Brigitte.” This connection was fostered through the Finding Family programme, which provided Poppie with a dedicated coordinator from the local council to help nurture her relationship with the Marshalls.
Support for All Young People in Care
While Poppie’s story is a heartening example of success, not every young person transitioning out of care is as fortunate. The experience can often resemble a “cliff edge,” where support abruptly ends, leaving many feeling isolated and overwhelmed. As Brigitte noted, “The thought of her leaving and being all on her own when she left care was shocking. You need more than just help with housing, finance, and education. I wanted her to feel valued, loved, and supported.”
Mackenzie, another young adult who has benefited from the Finding Family programme, also faced challenges after spending six years in care following the death of his mother. Having been placed in a care home far from his family, he struggled to maintain connections with his relatives. Thanks to his coordinator, he was able to rebuild relationships with extended family members, including a half-sister, which brought him immense joy. “It’s wonderful to feel close to them again,” Mackenzie stated, acknowledging that these connections have filled a void in his life.
Government Commitment to Support
The Department for Education is prioritising the needs of all 80,000 children in care through the implementation of this programme. With £8.4 million allocated over the next three years, local councils are being encouraged to employ coordinators who can facilitate the formation of healthy, supportive relationships. Early results from the pilot programme indicate that young participants averaged nearly two significant relationships, with over a third reconnecting with family.
Children’s Minister Josh MacAlister expressed hope that this initiative will empower children leaving care to “achieve and thrive.” He emphasised the importance of lifelong relationships, stating, “Too many children leave care without the love, support, and stability that the majority of us rely on throughout adulthood.”
Overcoming Ongoing Challenges
While the response to these developments has been positive, significant challenges remain. Statistics indicate that young people exiting care are three times more likely to be unemployed or disengaged from education, and nearly a third face homelessness within two years of leaving the system. Cathy Ashley, head of the Family Rights Group, highlighted the need for comprehensive support in housing and employment, stressing that the state system has historically failed many young individuals. “We have to keep building from here if we are going to solve this,” she added.
The Finding Family programme represents a promising start in addressing the needs of young people leaving care, but it underscores the urgent requirement for sustained efforts to improve outcomes and ensure that no young adult is left to navigate this critical transition alone.
Why it Matters
The emotional and practical support provided through initiatives like the Finding Family programme can be life-changing for young individuals transitioning out of the care system. By fostering connections and ensuring access to vital resources, we can significantly improve their chances of success and well-being in adulthood. As society grapples with the ongoing challenges faced by these young people, it is imperative to continue advocating for comprehensive support systems that promote resilience, stability, and a sense of belonging.
