Leeds, UK – Young people leaving the care system were firmly in the spotlight a week ago, as children’s charity Barnardo’s received a powerful show of support from charity partner Leeds Building Society at a Leeds Rhinos Super League match. The event, hosted during the Rhinos’ clash against Warrington Wolves, aimed to raise crucial awareness and funds for young care leavers.
As part of a dedicated ‘charity takeover day,’ Leeds Building Society generously donated its prominent advertising space and shirt sponsorship for the game directly to Barnardo’s. This meant the charity’s branding was front and centre, reaching a wide audience and highlighting the vital work they do.
Further demonstrating their commitment, matchday tickets were also donated to children and families locally supported by Barnardo’s. This incredible gesture provided an opportunity for these young individuals to experience the excitement of a live rugby match, cheering on the Rhinos to a decisive 36-12 victory. The impactful limited-edition Barnardo’s-branded shirts worn by the Rhinos players during the game are set to be auctioned off, with all proceeds directly funding Barnardo’s services for young people.
This partnership, spearheaded by Barnardo’s and Leeds Building Society, is designed to bring much-needed attention to the unique challenges faced by young people transitioning out of the care system. Statistics show that care leavers – those who have grown up in foster care or residential homes – are disproportionately likely to experience homelessness, poor health outcomes, and unemployment in adulthood compared to their peers.
“It was a pleasure to attend this weekend’s game and to share the voices of young people leaving the care system with such a large audience,” stated Lynn Perry, Chief Executive of Barnardo’s. “We are extremely grateful to Leeds Rhinos and Leeds Building Society for the opportunity to use this platform.”
Barnardo’s, drawing on its extensive history of supporting young care leavers, emphasises that the state’s responsibility to young people should not end when they turn 18. Lynn Perry added, “Parenting doesn’t end when a child turns 18, and for young people in the care of the state, our responsibilities cannot end there either. This is especially important when we know that one in three care leavers become homeless in the first two years after they leave care.”
The charity, in collaboration with its partners, is advocating for a national offer of support for young people leaving foster care and children’s homes through the Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill. This call to government includes vital provisions such as free bus passes and access to rent deposits and guarantors, aiming to provide a more consistent and equitable transition to adult life, irrespective of location.
“We’re proud to be backing Barnardo’s through our long-standing partnership with Leeds Rhinos,” commented Nikki Dixon, Director of Brand and Marketing at Leeds Building Society. “Young people with experience of the care system are some of the most vulnerable in our communities and it’s so important that we highlight the challenges that they face.”
Leeds Building Society is committed to fundraising £300,000 over three years to support Barnardo’s crucial work. Nikki Dixon further highlighted, “Our relationship with Leeds Rhinos has always been built on shared values and it’s a privilege to be able to use this platform to fundraise for Barnardo’s and make a positive difference where it’s needed most.”
This collaboration underscores the shared commitment to helping young care leavers build brighter, more stable futures, ensuring they receive the support they deserve as they embark on independent living