Who Are Care Leavers?

Care leavers are young people who have spent time in the care system (such as foster care or residential care) and are transitioning into adulthood and independence — often without the same family support that many others might rely on.

In the UK, a care leaver is typically defined as someone who:

• Has been in care for at least 13 weeks after their 14th birthday, and

• Was in care on or after their 16th birthday.

They are usually entitled to support until they are at least 21, or up to 25 if they are in education or training.

🌟 Why Support Care Leavers Matters

Leaving care can be a daunting time. While most young people gradually gain independence with help from family, care leavers often face this journey alone — and at a younger age.

Without strong support, care leavers are at higher risk of:

• Homelessness

• Mental health struggles

• Unemployment

• Social isolation

With the right guidance and care, however, they can thrive and go on to build healthy, fulfilling lives.

🏠 How Fostering Agencies Support Care Leavers

At Rising Stars Fostering, we understand that the journey doesn’t end at 18.

We support care leavers by:

• Helping young people prepare for independence through life skills (e.g., budgeting, cooking, job seeking)

• Working closely with personal advisers and local authorities to create clear pathway plans

• Advocating for stable housing, education, and emotional wellbeing

• Staying connected — offering familiar faces and consistent guidance during the transition

💬 What Foster Carers Can Do

Foster carers play a vital role in preparing and encouraging young people as they approach independence. This includes:

• Teaching life skills gradually

• Promoting resilience and self-esteem

• Encouraging education or employment goals

• Staying emotionally available, even when a young person moves on

In some cases, carers may support Staying Put arrangements, where young people remain in the foster home beyond 18 for extra stability.

💛 A Message to Care Leavers

You are not alone. Your past doesn’t define you — your strength, courage, and dreams do. At Rising Stars, we are committed to walking beside you every step of the way, helping you feel empowered, valued, and ready for what’s ahead.