For many young people, turning 18 signifies a momentous step into adulthood. However, for those who have spent their childhood in care, this transition can be fraught with anxiety and uncertainty. The “Staying Put” arrangement, which allows care leavers to continue living with their foster families beyond their 18th birthday, presents a compelling solution, offering the promise of continued stability and support during a crucial period of life.
The Allure of Continuity:
Staying Put can be a lifeline for young people who may have experienced trauma or instability in their childhood. The familiar environment of a foster home can provide a crucial sense of security and belonging, fostering a sense of normalcy, and reducing the stress of navigating the complexities of independent living. This continued support can be invaluable for young people as they strive to achieve their educational and career goals, develop essential life skills, and build healthy relationships.
A Mixed Bag of Realities:
While the potential benefits are significant, the reality of Staying Put is often more nuanced.
- Inconsistency Across the Nation: The quality and availability of Staying Put arrangements vary dramatically across the country. Some young people may benefit from generous support, while others may face significant gaps in funding and inconsistent levels of care. This inconsistency creates an uneven playing field for care leavers, undermining the very principles of equity and fairness that should underpin such a vital support system.
- Funding Woes: Inadequate funding poses a significant challenge. Underfunded programs can limit the support available to both care leavers and foster families, potentially compromising the success of the arrangement.
- The Risk of Dependency: While intended to foster independence, there is a risk that Staying Put arrangements could inadvertently lead to prolonged dependency. It is crucial to strike a delicate balance between providing ongoing support and encouraging young people to develop the skills and confidence to thrive independently.
- The Strain on Foster Families: Staying Put can place additional burdens on foster families, both financially and emotionally. Ensuring adequate support and resources for foster families is essential for the long-term viability of these arrangements.
Government Action and Local Realities:
The government has recognized the potential of Staying Put and introduced legislation to support its implementation. However, translating policy into effective practice remains a significant challenge. Local authorities play a crucial role, but they often face numerous pressures, including budget constraints, staffing shortages, and the complexities of individual needs.
Navigating the System:
Care leavers can access a range of support services, including personal advisors, housing assistance, and mental health support. These services are vital for helping young people navigate the complexities of adulthood and achieve their full potential. However, accessing these services can sometimes be challenging, and the quality of support can vary significantly.
The Road Ahead:
Staying Put has the potential to be a transformative initiative for young people leaving care. However, to truly succeed, it requires a multi-faceted approach that addresses the following:
- Consistent and Equitable Funding: Ensuring adequate and consistent funding for Staying Put arrangements across the country.
- Enhanced Support for Foster Families: Providing robust support and resources for foster families to ensure their well-being and sustainability.
- Individualized Support Plans: Developing personalized support plans for each care leaver, tailored to their unique needs and aspirations.
- Improved Data Collection and Evaluation: Collecting and analysing data to better understand the impact of Staying Put arrangements and identify areas for improvement.
- Increased Collaboration: Fostering stronger collaboration between local authorities, foster families, and other stakeholders to ensure a coordinated and effective response.
The success of Staying Put ultimately depends on a commitment to providing consistent, high-quality support for all care leavers, empowering them to build fulfilling and independent lives.
For further information, please visit:
- The Fostering Network: https://www.thefosteringnetwork.org.uk/policy-practice/practice-information/staying-put/staying-put-guidance
- The Children and Families Act 2014: https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2014/6/part/5/crossheading/staying-put-arrangements
- Local Authority Guidance on Staying Put: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/staying-put-arrangements-for-care-leavers-aged-18-years-and-above