Member News: Barnardo's urges Govt to review the care system

Barnardo's has joined 26 other organisations working with care-experienced children and young people in England to urge the Government to carry out a review of the care system without delay. 

The group has published an open letter to the Secretary of State, Gavin Williamson MP, calling on the Government to move forward with an independent and meaningful review.

Javed Khan, Barnardo’s Chief Executive, said:

“While many children in the care system have a positive experience, it continues to fail some of the most vulnerable, particularly teenagers and those with complex needs. 

“As a society we must give these children the same opportunities that as parents we give our own children. Today around 36% of care leavers in England aged 17-21 are not in education, employment or training, compared to 12% of this age group overall. This urgently needs to change.

“That’s why we are calling for a root and branch review of the care system, with young people - who are ‘experts by experience’ - at its heart.  It must consider why children are entering care, their experience of fostering and residential provision, right through to what happens when they leave. We look forward to working with the Government to improve the system so that all children in care can achieve a positive future.” 

Source:
www.barnardos.org.uk

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