One-off payment for care leavers considered in Scotland

Young people leaving care in Scotland are to to receive a one-off Care Leaver Payment of £2,000 to support them to move into more independent living under proposals being considered.

The proposed payment will be co-designed with care experienced people.

The announcement comes after the Independent Care Review highlighted links between those with care experience and the increased risk of poor mental health, addiction, homelessness and exploitation.

First minister Humza Yousaf said: “The Scottish Government is committed to Keeping the Promise by 2030 to all of our children and young people. This includes making sure that all young people are given the support they need to transition from care into adulthood and more independent living.

“For any young person, at any age, moving away from home can be a challenging time when we rely heavily on family support networks. Many care experienced young people won’t have that luxury which many of us take for granted.

“Care experienced people are over one and a half times more likely to experience financial difficulties and have more than double the chance of experiencing homelessness, mainly before age 30. We also know that money management is a top concern for young people moving on from care.

“It is important we provide the right support at the right time for our care experienced young people – and the Care Leaver Payment will provide much needed financial support at such an important moment in their lives.”

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