Care Leavers Covenant Board meeting and report out today

Today, Tuesday 10 November, Education Secretary Gavin Williamson (@GavinWilliamson) co-chaired the second Care Leavers Covenant Board meeting alongside the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster Michael Gove (@michaelgove). This is a cross-government taskforce that aims to tackle key barriers faced by care leavers with a particular focus on housing, education, employment or training and access to healthcare. 

Alongside this meeting the second report from the National Implementation Adviser for Care Leavers has now been published. Written by adviser Mark Riddell, it highlights best practise from local authorities, including increased support for care leavers over the coronavirus (COVID-19) period.  

Education Secretary Gavin Williamson said: 

“We are determined to break down the barriers our most vulnerable children and young people face, and we must all play our part. Bringing together my colleagues in Government at the Care Leaver Covenant Board, I have tasked them to take the lead in their areas of influence, urging every employer to step up and create more and better opportunities for care leavers. 

“We know that the impact of Covid-19 has been particular tough on those leaving care which is why we took urgent action to prevent them being left without support at this time. Today we have published a new report that highlights the extraordinary steps taken by councils to support care leavers throughout the pandemic. By sharing best practice we can address the challenges that still remain for young people leaving the care system.”