“While it is encouraging to hear that the majority of children in care say life is getting better, clearly this important report highlights areas of concern, in particular the decline in wellbeing for care leavers.
Responding to a report by the Coram Institute for Children on the wellbeing of children and young people in and leaving care, Cllr Amanda Hopgood, Chair of the Local Government Association’s Children, Young People and Families Committee, said:
“While it is encouraging to hear that the majority of children in care say life is getting better, clearly this important report highlights areas of concern, in particular the decline in wellbeing for care leavers.
“Making sure care leavers get the support they need to transition to independence is vital and councils work hard to prepare young people before they leave care. But they are working under significant financial pressures.
“The Government should ensure all councils receive sufficient funding to invest long-term into family help, child protection, and child in care and care leaver services.
“It should also develop a cross-government strategy for children, young people and families to ensure all partners are working towards a shared ambition.”