We urge the Government not to cut Universal Credit for young care leavers

We welcome the Government’s response to the Education Select Committee’s report into children’s social care, which agreed with many of the recommendations set out by the committee in the report. These policies are undoubtedly a move in the right direction, although we would like to see the government go further to ensure all children at risk of harm receive the support they need.

In addition, we join Helen Hayes and the Education Select Committee in urging the Government not to cut Universal Credit for care leavers under 22. At a time when young people throughout the country are increasingly reliant on their parents for financial support and accommodation, as they find their feet in the adult world, the state must fulfil its role as corporate parent to young care leavers – these parental duties don’t suddenly stop during the transition to adulthood.

Care leavers already face steeper barriers than their peers: higher rates of homelessness, debt, mental health challenges and underemployment. To propose cutting a financial lifeline to these vulnerable young people is deeply unfair and short sighted.

We also agree with the committee that, as with all the work in our sector, young people must be heard and play a role in shaping policy that will affect their lives.