By Jamie Waller, Local Democracy Reporter
Young Nottinghamshire care leavers are finding success in the army, training in medicine and giving back through work in children’s homes, a report says.
People who have spent time in the care system statistically leave school with fewer qualifications and have greater difficulty finding work.
There are currently 425 people aged 18 to 21 who are being supported after leaving Nottinghamshire care services.
An annual report going before Nottinghamshire County Council next week gives an insight into the achievements of local young people who have found success.
One young man will be joining the Irish Guard after having his passing out parade in the army.
Another leaver is in her fourth year of studying medicine at university, and will be going on an elective placement to New Zealand for three months.
One care leaver has successfully obtained a job in a children’s home thanks to his passion for helping others in his situation.
He said he is excited to “give back to the system that raised me, and help some lost souls like myself”.
Other successes include a young person who previously struggled to leave their house now getting a part-time job.
A 2017 report by the Prince’s Trust found that many care leavers struggled after leaving the system, with 87 per cent leaving school will fewer than five A* to C GCSEs.
According to the most recent figures in 2022/23, two-thirds of Nottinghamshire care leavers aged 17 or 18 were in employment education or training, and 53 per cent of those aged 19 to 21.
Around 90 per cent were deemed to be in suitable accommodation, with the rest in custody or houses of multiple occupancy (which may include students).
The report says Nottinghamshire’s service aims to smooth the transition from care to independence.
Each leaver receives a grant of at least £3,000 to help them set up their first home, covering costs such as furniture and white goods.
The report will be discussed by the Corporate Parenting Panel on Tuesday, April 16.
