From 2020-2024 The Care Leavers Association was a partner in the EXIT research project, led by Warwick University, which explored what helps or hinders innovation in relation to leaving care services. As part of this work, we undertook some direct research with organisations who had developed innovative responses to improving the mental health and wellbeing of care leavers. The report highlights that there are many different approaches that can be taken in this area.
Continue ReadingDarren Coyne
It is with great sadness that we announce that Care Leavers Association (CLA) Project Manager Darren Coyne has died this morning, after a short illness. Darren was one of a kind. He was a straight-talking Yorkshireman who cared passionately about improving the lives of care experienced people of all ages. Prepared to tell truth to power, he was also an amazing support worker for individual care leavers and for groups of care leavers. He could, and did, work with anyone in the cause of helping care leavers, from members of the House of Lords to young care leavers in the criminal justice system in need of support. Wherever he went,… Read More
Continue ReadingPhoto Voice
We are working in partnership with Photo Voice to explore the perspectives of care-experienced young people of different ages across England and Wales. The project uses photography and storytelling as a tool for advocacy and self-expression, as participants reflect on their perspective of what they need from relevant support services and provisions. We are looking for care leavers over 25 to take part in workshops for the next stage of the project which will provide participants opportunities to learn photographic storytelling skills to reflect on, and respond to, other participant insights into the care system. This is open to people with no photography skills and those with photography skills. Information… Read More
Continue ReadingGet involved in health project
Join us to improve health outcomes for care leavers
Continue ReadingExtend Leaving Care Support
We call on the government to improve the care system
Continue ReadingPublic Accounts Committee
The views of the Public Accounts Committee report published recently looking at the Care System.
Continue ReadingClear Approach Evaluation
The initial cohort of the Clear Approach program which was developed by the CLA to improve the lives of care leavers in the criminal justice system and was delivered with care leavers at Greater Manchester Probation Trust Intensive Alternatives To Custody (IAC) has now been
Continue ReadingPublic Accounts
The CLA gave evidence to the Public Accounts Committee about the state of the care system. This was in response to the National Audit Office report into Children in Care.
Continue ReadingMedia
BBC Radio 4’s File On Four explores issues faced by care leavers being pushed into independent living before they are ready. We supported a young person to contribute to the show.
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