Reforms for social workers and care leavers

Reforms aimed at improving the support for social workers and care leavers were initiated to address the challenges faced by vulnerable children and young adults transitioning out of care. The legislation introduced a statutory care-leaver covenant, which mandated local authorities to provide comprehensive entitlements for care leavers up to the age of 25. These entitlements encompassed critical areas such as housing, employment, and health support, ensuring that young individuals had access to necessary resources as they moved into adulthood. The reforms recognized the importance of stability in the lives of care leavers and sought to create a more supportive environment for their development and integration into society. In addition to the covenant, the reforms included the implementation of mandatory mentoring programs for care leavers. This initiative aimed to provide guidance and support from experienced individuals, helping young adults navigate the complexities of life after care. Furthermore, the decision-making process regarding placements was adjusted to favor adoption over temporary foster placements. This shift was intended to promote long-term stability for children in care, reducing the disruptions that often accompany multiple foster placements. Overall, these reforms represented a significant effort to enhance the welfare of care leavers and improve the effectiveness of social work practices, ultimately aiming to foster a more secure and supportive environment for vulnerable children and young adults.