ARU Accessible Summary

Care leavers’ experiences of support during the Covid-19 pandemic Background Some care leavers were already facing challenges with things like money, housing, mental health, and overall support before Covid-19, and for many this got worse during the pandemic. We did some research alongside care leavers from six local authorities (Cornwall, Essex, Hertfordshire, Medway, South Tyneside, and Stockport) to find out more about these experiences. We formed a research team of 25 care leavers, with support workers and researchers fromAnglia Ruskin University. We worked together online to design a questionnaire so we could hear from other care leavers about their experiences. The research team also shared their experiences in group discussions. Altogether we heard from 112 care leavers. This is what we found. Practical challenges 23% of care leavers were very worried about money before Covid-19, but during the pandemic 46%were veryworried . Things like losing jobs, zero- hour contracts, universal credit, and the furlough scheme added to these worries: “Living on £200 for five weeks is hard when you have rent and bills and food and everything to pay for.” (FG: Female, 18) Some did not have support with moving to independent living: “I moved house during the pandemic and had noonetocontact,Ididn’tknowmyPAsocouldn’t call to ask for help regarding council tax, or help moving and setting up my new home.” (Q: Female, 20) While some care leavers managed with careful budgeting and help from family, others felt let down by the lack of support from services. Those who did receive support said food parcels/ vouchers and food banks, furlough schemes, free bus passes/tickets, and help with rent was hugely appreciated: “The furlough and food voucher schemes helpedmetrytorelaxaboutthingsthathappen. I was very worried about how it would affect my home life. The schemes gave me stability.” (Q: Female, 17) While some care leavers in education had support from teachers checking in on them and providing help, others did not. Likewise, care leavers living with children had mixed experiences of support. For example, some were able to get a nursery place; however, 68% did not receive support with looking after their children during Covid-19: “If someone were to help with ideas of what to do at home that would be good.” (FG: Female, 20)