“Working in partnership with HIWCF has enabled our funding to be doubled to benefit those who need it most to enjoy better lives. SNG houses many care leavers and this partnership with HIWCF allows us to support young people to be able to make secure and sustainable lives. Our mission as a housing association is not just to provide homes but to support thriving communities and to make great places to live. Our partnership and support of HIWCF forms a key part of achieving these goals. The transition into adulthood and independent living for care leavers can be devastating, with a third of care leavers in the UK becoming homeless within the first two years of leaving care. A huge 39% of UK care leavers aged 19 – 21 years are not in education, employment or training, compared to 13% of all 19 to 21 year olds.” 

Grants have been given to local youth organisations who are providing expert support for young care leavers to manage the challenges of adulthood that their peers would often be able to turn to family members for. Much needed funds are helping with the practical aspects of adulthood like budgeting, furnishing flats, investing in tools and equipment to support studies and transition into work. They are also used for professional support for emotional issues if they have had traumatic experiences.